BIOL 214: Genes, Ecology & Evolution – Lizards in an Evolutionary Tree (Caribbean Anoles)

Flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture notes on Caribbean anole lizards, their ecomorphs, habitat associations, observed differences between two species, the Losos hurricane island experiment, and the evolutionary interpretations (phylogeny and Darwinian context).

What are the two overarching goals of Genes, Evolution and Ecology as described in the notes?

Develop an understanding of both the diversity and unity of life on Earth.

What is an ecomorph?

A body form adapted to a particular ecological niche or habitat.

What are the six ecomorphs of Anole Lizards found on the Caribbean Islands?

Crown-giant; Trunk-crown; Trunk; Twig; Trunk-ground; Grass-bush.

Which habitat is associated with the Crown-giant ecomorph?

High trunks and branches (usually green).

Which habitat is associated with the Twig ecomorph?

Narrow twigs.

Which habitat is associated with the Grass-bush ecomorph?

Bush and grasses.

What habitat characterizes the Trunk-ground ecomorph?

Lower trunk and ground.

In the Observations of Two species of Anoles, which species inhabits high trunks and branches?

Species A.

Which species (A or B) has a green body color and large toe pads?

Species A.

What experimental approach did Losos use to study evolution of Anoles on Caribbean islands?

Natural experiments on nearby hurricane-hit islands: leave a few Anoles, observe evolution after about a year.

What is the main conclusion about biodiversity on the Caribbean islands according to the notes?

Lizards on each island are more closely related to each other than to similar lizards elsewhere, indicating repeated, independent evolution on each island.

Which two statements accurately describe the phylogenetic trees in the figure?

A) Twig lizard is the ancestor of all lizards; canopy and grass evolved from twig. B) Body types evolved repeatedly and independently on each island.

What is the overarching point about Darwin's explanation in BIOL 214?

Biodiversity arises from layered processes; Darwin’s natural selection explains it and BIOL 214 builds on his work.