The endemic Galapagos marine iguana (Amblyrhynchus cristatus) on Espanola Island in the Galapagos Islands, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ecuador, South America

amblyrhynchus cristatus espanola island ecuador endemic species wildlife basking sunbathing reptile marine habitat conservation fauna unique adaptations vibrant colors natural behavior unesco biodiversity island ecology south america coastal environment volcanic rocks animal behavior ecological significance tropical wildlife lizard cold blooded scavenger herbivore island species rocky habitat wildlife preservation thermoregulation evolution marine reptiles galapagos islands conservation efforts nature animal adaptations zoology herpetology natural history ecosystems environmental science ecology biodiversity hotspot coastal ecosystems species diversity terrestrial habitat animal ecology