Reptiles date back over 300 million years, with extinct ancestors such as the cotylosaurs looking remarkably similar to reptiles you might find today.
Their extensive history means they’re incredibly diverse and widespread, inhabiting every continent except the freezing-cold Antarctica.
From turtles to snakes, crocodiles to geckos, reptiles are fascinating creatures with a range of unique characteristics.
In this blog, we’re shining a spotlight on one of the rarer forms of reptiles: the iguana.
What is an iguana?
An iguana (Iguana), is a medium-sized reptile that is native to tropical areas of the Americas such as Central America, South America, the Caribbean and parts of Mexico.
There are roughly 40 species of iguana, with popular examples such as the green iguana (Iguana iguana), the blue iguana (Cyclura lewisi) and the marine iguana (Amblyrhynchus cristatus) capturing the hearts of many reptile lovers.
Iguanas are part of the Iguanidae family of herbivorous lizards, which includes chuckwallas as well as prehistoric relatives.
7 things you should know about iguanas
Iguanas aren’t just gorgeous to look at, they’re also remarkably interesting characters once they shed their beautifully coloured skin. Let’s explore some of the reasons why we love iguanas so much.
There are roughly 40 species of iguana
Iguanas are a varied group of animals, consisting of around 40 species that have unique appearances, colours and adaptations. Despite only inhabiting a small portion of the earth, these lizards are diverse and well-suited to thrive in specific environments such as the marine iguana’s long, flat tail that helps it to swim.
They are native to tropical habitats
Despite making their homes in various environments such as deserts, mountainous regions, rainforests, and swamps; there’s one thing that’s for certain: iguanas love tropical climates!
Reptiles rely on outside sources of heat for their warmth because they are cold-blooded, so warm environments are typically where you’ll find them. Iguanas have adapted to flourish in tropical environments in the Americas, such as Mexico, Central and South America as well as the Caribbean.
Iguanas are generally herbivores
Despite looking like fearsome little dinosaurs, iguanas don’t eat other animals. Iguanas are herbivores, surviving entirely on leaves, vines, fruits, and even flowers. Because they feed only on vegetation, iguanas are a relatively simple animal to feed for enthusiasts who choose to keep them as pets, especially when compared to reptiles such as snakes who must be fed using other animals.
Some species of iguana, such as spiny-tailed iguanas do occasionally feed on insects, making them omnivores, just like humans.
Iguanas are some of the world’s largest lizards
While the biggest lizard is the Komodo dragon which measures up to 3 metres in length, iguanas aren’t too far behind. The blue iguana, green iguana, and Galapagos land iguana can all grow up to 1.5m in length, or about the size of the average 12-year-old.
As well as their size, iguanas have lots of sharp, serrated teeth so it’s best to steer clear of them if you see one in the wild.
The black spiny-tailed iguana is the fastest lizard in the world
It’s not just their size that’s impressive, iguanas are known to be fast-moving lizards. In fact, the fastest lizard in the world on land is the black spiny-tailed iguana, reaching an incredible 21.5mph when they’re travelling at full speed.
For context, the average man can sprint at just under 20mph. So, unless you’re an accomplished athlete, you’d be wise to avoid a foot race with one of these iguanas!
Although you won’t be able to race them, you will be able to see a black spiny-tailed iguana up close at Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth!
Iguanas can live for around 20 years
In the wild, iguanas tend to live on average for around 8 years. Thanks to the diet and care that they receive in captivity, they can live up to 20 years. Those dedicated enough can even own iguanas at home, but keeping any exotic pet requires specialist knowledge and equipment that not everyone has.
Iguanas have a third eye
You read that right! Iguanas have a third eye on the top of their heads that works by reacting to light to help them regulate things such as hormones and sleep cycles. It’s also believed that they can use this third eye to detect predators from above.
From their incredible speed, brilliant colours and unique adaptations, iguanas truly are remarkable creatures worthy of admiration. Despite being native to the tropical climates of Central and South America, we’re lucky enough to house iguanas at Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth, so why not book your tickets and pop down to marvel at their beauty in person?