- Unique species of iguana found only in the Galápagos Islands.
- Feeds primarily on marine algae, making it the only marine lizard in the world.
- Remarkable ability to withstand high levels of salt and survive in the marine environment.
2) Española Tortoise (Chelonoidis hoodensis):
- Critically endangered species found exclusively on Española Island in the Galápagos.
- Known for its saddle-shaped shell and elongated neck.
- Has a unique diet that includes cacti, fruits, and leaves found only on Española Island.
3) Fernandina Marine Iguana (Amblyrhynchus cristatus mertensi):
- Subspecies of Marine Iguana found only on Fernandina Island.
- Larger than other Marine Iguanas, reaching over 1.2 meters in length.
- Feeds primarily on marine algae, but has also been observed eating terrestrial plants.
4) Flightless Cormorant (Phalacrocorax harrisi):
- Only flightless cormorant in the world, found exclusively in the Galápagos Islands.
- Has adapted to diving for fish without the ability to fly.
- Breeds on rocky shores, often nesting in crevices and caves.
5) Pinta Island Tortoise (Chelonoidis abingdonii):
- Critically endangered species, with only one remaining individual known to exist – “Lonesome George.”
- Found only on Pinta Island, but now resides at the Galápagos National Park Tortoise Center in Santa Cruz Island.
- Known for its distinctive saddle-shaped shell, long neck, and large size.
6) Galápagos Penguin (Spheniscus mendiculus):
- Only penguin species found north of the equator.
- Breeds on the Galápagos Islands and migrates to Peru during the non-breeding season.
- Feeds primarily on small fish, squid, and crustaceans found in the ocean currents surrounding the islands.
These are just a few examples of the diverse and unique animal species that can be found only in the Galápagos Islands. The archipelago is renowned for its endemic species, which have adapted and evolved in isolation, making it a biodiversity hotspot of global significance.