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Ancient Iguanas' Epic Journey Now Threatened by Extinction

3/25/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Iguanas embarked on an incredible journey, rafting from North America to Fiji and Tonga around 34 million years ago, as revealed by researchers from UC Berkeley and USF. DNA analysis shows a striking connection between Fijian iguanas and North American desert iguanas. Sadly, all four species are now critically endangered, highlighting the fragility of their remarkable legacy.

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Story summary

Iguanas embarked on an incredible journey, rafting from North America to Fiji and Tonga around 34 million years ago, as revealed by researchers from UC Berkeley and USF. DNA analysis shows a striking connection between Fijian iguanas and North American desert iguanas. Sadly, all four species are now critically endangered, highlighting the fragility of their remarkable legacy.