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Fijian Iguanas Made 5,000-Mile Ocean Journey from North America 34 Million Years Ago

Genetic analysis confirms these reptiles undertook the longest known transoceanic dispersal of any terrestrial vertebrate, likely on vegetation rafts.

A Fijian crested iguana (Brachylophus vitiensis) resting on a coconut palm on the island of Fiji in the South Pacific. The four species of iguanas that inhabit Fiji and Tonga today are descended from ancestors that colonized the island within the past 34 million years, probably by rafting 5,000 miles across the Pacific Ocean from western North America.
green and white striped iguana on a branch
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Overview

  • A new study reveals that Fijian iguanas likely traveled 5,000 miles from North America to Fiji on vegetation rafts around 34 million years ago.
  • This journey marks the longest documented ocean crossing by any land-dwelling vertebrate, according to researchers.
  • Genetic evidence shows Fijian iguanas are most closely related to North American desert iguanas, ruling out alternative origin theories involving South America, Asia, or Antarctica.
  • The study highlights the iguanas' ecological adaptations, such as resistance to dehydration and starvation, which made them well-suited for long oceanic voyages.
  • The findings provide critical insights into the evolutionary history of iguanas and underscore the importance of conservation efforts for endangered Fijian iguana species.