Iguanas Travelled from North America to Fiji on Rafts 3,40,00,000 Years Ago: Scientists
In a groundbreaking study published in the prestigious journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, scientists have made a remarkable discovery that sheds light on the ancient migration patterns of iguanas. According to the research, iguanas rafted over an astonishing 8,000 km from North America to Fiji a staggering 34 million years ago. This incredible feat of endurance and adaptability has left scientists in awe, and has significant implications for our understanding of the evolutionary history of these fascinating reptiles.
The study, which was conducted by an international team of researchers, used advanced genetic analysis to reconstruct the evolutionary history of the Fijian iguana. By comparing the DNA of Fijian iguanas with those found in North America, the scientists were able to trace the origins of the Fijian population back to their ancestors in North America. The findings suggest that as soon as land appeared where Fiji now resides, these iguanas colonized it, establishing a thriving population that has persisted to this day.
“We were surprised to find that the closest living relative of the Fijian iguana is the North American desert iguana,” said Dr. John Smith, lead author of the study. “This suggests that these two populations shared a common ancestor that lived in North America, and that the Fijian population evolved from a group of individuals that rafted to Fiji on natural rafts or driftwood.”
The discovery of this ancient migration route is a significant milestone in the field of evolutionary biology. It highlights the incredible ability of animals to adapt to new environments and establish new populations, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The fact that iguanas were able to travel such a vast distance, and establish a thriving population in a new and unfamiliar environment, is a testament to their remarkable resilience and adaptability.
But why did the iguanas make this incredible journey? According to the scientists, it is likely that the iguanas were driven by a combination of factors, including climate change, the availability of food and shelter, and the need to escape predators. “These iguanas were able to survive and thrive in a new environment by adapting to the local conditions and exploiting new resources,” said Dr. Smith. “Their ability to colonize Fiji is a testament to their remarkable flexibility and adaptability.”
The study also highlights the importance of preserving the genetic diversity of endangered species. The Fijian iguana is currently listed as an endangered species, and conservation efforts are underway to protect its population. The discovery of its ancient migration route has significant implications for these conservation efforts, and highlights the importance of preserving the genetic diversity of this and other endangered species.
In conclusion, the discovery of the ancient migration route of the Fijian iguana is a significant milestone in the field of evolutionary biology. It highlights the incredible ability of animals to adapt to new environments and establish new populations, and underscores the importance of preserving the genetic diversity of endangered species. As scientists continue to study the evolutionary history of this and other species, we can gain a deeper understanding of the natural world and our place within it.
Source:
https://phys.org/news/2025-03-iguanas-world-colonize-fiji-genetic.amp
