10 creatures that thrive in volcanic environments

Land Iguana

These large cousins of the lizard are native to the Galapagos islands, thriving in intense volcanic terrains. They use the warmth from these volcanic rocks to regulate warmth inside their body. They can detect volcanic activity and feed on cactus and vegetation.

The land iguana can detect volcanic activity and feed on cactus and vegetation. (Source: Canva)

Lesser Flamingo

The lesser flamingo inhabits extremely saline lakes like Lake Natron and feeds on cyanobacteria that flourish in such locations. Its unique evolution allows it to survive in salinity levels that would be lethal to all conventional species.

Jackass Penguin

The Jackass penguin, also known as the African penguin is known to live on the shores of volcanic islands. They use their surrounding rocks to nest and protect themselves from potential predators.

Hawaiian Blackfoot Limpet

As the name suggests, this marine gastropod is native to the volcanic islands of Hawaii. It uses its strong limbs to stay putin the water, keeping predators at bay and feeding on algae.

Vampire Ground Finch

Living in the unstable terrain of the Galapagos islands, this small bird has evolved to drink the blood of seagulls to supplement its nutritional requirements. It does so in cases of food shortages caused by volcanic activities.

Nene

The nene is a Hawaiian goose that has adapted to the rugged terrain of the volcanic islands of Hawaii. It feeds on local vegetation, living in the harsh conditions of the region with ease.

Pacific sleeper shark

This species of shark lives in deep oceans that are home to active volcanic activity. The Pacific Sleeper Shark has developed the ability to thrive in cold and high-pressure environments, making it a suited inhabitant of underwater volcanic areas.

Salamanders

This species of salamander can use their skin to permeate moisture. Thus, they often benefit from living in geothermal areas that have warm temperatures and abundant moisture.

This species of salamander can use their skin to permeate moisture.

Volcano Rabbit

This rabbit has thick fur and inhabits high-altitude volcanic areas. It mainly feeds on grass and leafy vegetation that is found abundantly in mountainous terrain.

Giant Tube Worms

Found in marine geothermal locations, these worms have evolved and adapted to the extreme conditions and temperatures posed by such locations.