How hurricanes triggered lizard evolution
About this episode
This episode discusses how hurricanes have influenced the evolution of the silver key anole lizard in the Turks and Caicos.
Hurricane season is upon us and it turns out that these powerful storms can quickly affect the biology of animals. After hurricanes Irma and Maria hit the islands that make up Turks and Caicos about a decade ago, the silver key anole adapted. They now have a shorter fourth toe on their hind legs! That could help them cling to objects better. But how do you know unless you put lizards in front of a fan and record how long they can hold on? This study is out now in the journal Current Biology . Interested in more science in the news? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org . Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org . See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy
Topics covered
- hurricanes
- lizard evolution
- animal biology
- adaptation
- science news
Keywords
- hurricanes
- lizard evolution
- silver key anole
- adaptation
- animal biology
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: NPR
Books & works: Current Biology
Places: Turks and Caicos
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