Iguana

Iguanas are a group of large, herbivorous lizards in the genus Iguana, native to the Americas. The best known species is the green iguana (Iguana iguana), widespread in tropical forests and near waterways from southern Mexico to South America and the Caribbean. Other species in the genus include the Lesser Antillean iguana (Iguana delicatissima). Iguanas are typically terrestrial and arboreal, often found in trees but also active on the ground.

Physically, iguanas have stout bodies, long tails, strong legs, and a row of spines along the back and tail. They possess a large dewlap under the chin used in signaling and thermoregulation. Coloration varies with mood, temperature, and habitat, ranging from green to gray or brown. Adults can reach lengths around 1.2 to 1.5 meters, with the tail comprising a large portion of total length.

Habitat and behavior vary by species but commonly include tropical forests, near rivers or coastal areas, and sometimes disturbed habitats. Iguanas are generally diurnal and good climbers and swimmers. Their diet is primarily plant-based, consisting of leaves, flowers, and fruit; juveniles may supplement with insects and other invertebrates. They rely on basking to regulate body temperature and UV exposure to metabolize vitamin D.

Reproduction is oviparous. Females lay eggs in nests dug in soil or leaf litter, with clutch sizes that commonly range from about 20 to over 40 eggs, depending on species and condition. Eggs incubate for several weeks to several months, with hatchlings fending for themselves.

Conservation concerns include habitat loss, hunting, and the pet trade. Some iguana populations have become invasive outside their native range, notably green iguanas in parts of Florida. The Lesser Antillean iguana is threatened by habitat change and genetic introgression from introduced species.