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The Origin of Species: Lizards in an Evolutionary Tree

17 minutes 49 seconds

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Graphic of four islands close to each other. Each island has lizards on it. Caption: evolved independently on each island.

Working in the islands of the Caribbean, biologist Jonathan Losos has discovered the traits that enable dozens of anole species to adapt to different vertical niches in the forest. Differences in limb length, body shape, and toepad size allow different species to flourish on the ground. However, lizards living on thin branches or high in the canopy have different characteristics. These varied adaptations have played a key role in reproductive isolation and the formation of new species.

Media Details

Runtime: 17 minutes 49 seconds

Multi-sailed ship on the ocean as seen from above. Caption: Darwin jumped at the chance to sail around the world
The Origin of Species
Episode 1
30 minutes 56 seconds
Grade Level: 7 - 12
Graphic of island with birds that are similar except for coloring. Caption: They had become distinct species.
The Origin of Species
Episode 2
15 minutes 59 seconds
Grade Level: 7 - 12
Graphic of four islands close to each other. Each island has lizards on it. Caption: evolved independently on each island.
The Origin of Species
Episode 3
17 minutes 49 seconds
Grade Level: 9 - 12