How Drought Affects Lizard Evolution
Author Information
Author(s): Ryan Calsbeek, Wolfgang Buermann, Thomas B. Smith
Primary Institution: Dartmouth College
Hypothesis
Changing environmental conditions alter the nature of natural selection on Anolis lizards in the wild.
Conclusion
The study shows that natural selection on lizard traits varies significantly between wet and dry years due to changes in habitat use.
Supporting Evidence
- Lizards perched more on the ground during drought years.
- Selection on limb length occurred in wet years, while body size was favored during drought.
- The study used remote sensing data to link ecological changes to natural selection.
Takeaway
Lizards change how they live and what traits are favored based on whether it's a wet or dry year.
Methodology
The study involved a four-year observation of lizard populations, measuring selection on traits based on environmental changes.
Potential Biases
Potential biases from the experimental manipulation of lizard populations and environmental conditions.
Limitations
The drought coincided with the experimental replacement of male lizards, making it hard to isolate the effects of drought from the manipulation.
Participant Demographics
Male Anolis sagrei lizards from Kidd Cay and Nightmare Cay.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.004
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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