Steppe birds, marine wildlife, reptiles and invertebrates reveal a modest but highly specialised biodiversity.
The fauna of Lanzarote depends on the diversity of habitats created by relief and coastline: birds, reptiles, invertebrates and marine life occupy clearly different spaces.
Among its main reference points are Timanfaya and eruptions, Art and landscape, Adaptive agriculture, which connect landscape, memory and everyday life. Protecting these habitats turns biodiversity into part of island identity.
Key points
Steppe birdlife of the plains
The arid plains of Lanzarote are home to steppe birds such as the Canarian houbara bustard, listed in the catalogue of species threatened by habitat loss.
Underwater life around the islets
The seabeds of the Chinijo archipelago host a rich underwater fauna of corals, crustaceans, cephalopods and fish associated with rocky reefs.
The blind crab of Jameos del Agua
Munida iris is the endemic blind crustacean that inhabits the volcanic tube of Jameos del Agua, regarded as one of the most singular living creatures in the Canary Islands.
Reptiles of the arid zones
The Lisa de Lanzarote skink and other subspecies of endemic lizards live on the cliffs and in the malpaís (rugged lava badlands), where vegetation is scarce and solar radiation intense.
