SUMMARY
The article details the journey of reptiles to the Galápagos Islands, highlighting their survival and adaptation in the arid landscape. It explains how natural events like landslides and ocean currents carried ancestors of tortoises, iguanas, and snakes to the archipelago. The text emphasizes reptiles' resilience, particularly their ability to endure long periods without food and water, which aided their survival on long ocean voyages compared to amphibians and mammals.
TAKEAWAYS
Reptiles, including tortoises and iguanas, arrived in the Galápagos via ocean currents on floating debris.
Their ability to survive long periods without food and water was crucial for their journey.
Galápagos reptiles have evolved unique forms adapted to the islands' volcanic and arid environment.
The article uses photography to document these reptiles and their habitats.