Iguanas' Oceanic Journey to Fiji Revealed; James Taylor's Music to Inspire New Musical
New research clarifies iguanas' migration to Fiji; James Taylor's songs will underpin "Fire & Rain," a new stage musical directed by David Cromer.
Eat grass-fed beef, help the planet? Research says not so simple
Associated Press
Overview
Recent research shows iguanas from North America drifted to Fiji on rafts of vegetation over a 5,000-mile journey millions of years ago, marking the longest travel by a non-flying vertebrate. Genetic analysis of 14 iguana species supports this oceanic route, shedding light on their evolutionary adaptations. Meanwhile, singer-songwriter James Taylor's music is set to inspire a new stage musical titled "Fire & Rain." The production, in early development, features an original story by Pulitzer Prize-winner Tracy Letts and is directed by Tony Award-winner David Cromer. A timeline for the musical's premiere is still to be announced.
Content generated by AI—learn more or report issue.
Get both sides in 5 minutes with our daily newsletter.
Analysis
Analysis unavailable for this viewpoint.
Articles (6)
Center (3)
No highlight available for this article.
ABC News·4M·No highlight available for this article.
ABC News·4M·No highlight available for this article.
Associated Press·4M·FAQ
The iguanas likely traveled on rafts of vegetation, possibly facilitated by natural events like cyclones. Their ability to resist dehydration and starvation made them well-suited for such a journey.
The genetic analysis revealed that Fiji iguanas are most closely related to North American desert iguanas, supporting the theory that they migrated from North America. This clarifies their evolutionary history and rules out other proposed origins.
The musical 'Fire & Rain' is currently in early development. It features an original story by Tracy Letts and will be directed by David Cromer, but a premiere date has not been announced.
The Fiji iguanas represent a remarkable example of long-distance dispersal and evolutionary adaptation. Their journey highlights how rare events can lead to significant evolutionary changes over millions of years.
History
- 4M3 articles