The Red Weed

The Galapagos are host to many endemic plants that are not found anywhere else on the world. Only because Galapagos Carpetweed is also found on Mars. Seriously, doesn't it look like the Red Weed in War of the Worlds? Galapagos sea lions find it particularly comfy to rest on. Plaza Island in particular was carpeted with the stuff.

The older (and newer) black volcanic rock sticking up out of the plants made for some striking landscapes and photos. Particularly when the sun came up. It looked like fire in the correct light.

Land iguanas eat the Galapagos carpet weed. It doesn't have leaves like you would expect it to but those thicker stalky things. They are a bit narrower then my little finger but about as long. They provide lots of nourishment and store water kind of like a cactus does.