Marine vs. Land Iguanas A Case Study of Structures and their various Functions

Marine Iguanas Land Iguanas

Some Various Differences Marine iguanas have a tail that is longer than their body – uses tail rather than feet for swimming Marine iguanas have a tail that is longer than their body – uses tail rather than feet for swimming Marine iguanas have strong curved claws that can cling to rocks while feeding Marine iguanas have strong curved claws that can cling to rocks while feeding Marine iguanas have a short snout to easily graze on algae on rocks Marine iguanas have a short snout to easily graze on algae on rocks

Marine Iguanas Land Iguanas Short Snout Curved Claws Long Tail

Marine Iguanas Land Iguanas Swims and dives in ocean to get food Swims and dives in ocean to get food Main food is algae Main food is algae Tail is laterally compressed and longer than body Tail is laterally compressed and longer than body Inhabits coastal areas Inhabits coastal areas Shortened blunt snout Shortened blunt snout Does not enter the water Main food is prickly pear cactus fruit Tail is rounded and shorter than body Inhabits dry inland areas Longer pointed snout common to most reptiles

Marine Iguanas Salt Glands In order for marine iguanas to survive in the salt water, glands are able to get rid of excess salt In order for marine iguanas to survive in the salt water, glands are able to get rid of excess salt Salt is expelled by forcibly sneezing Salt is expelled by forcibly sneezing