More Evidence Of Seed Dispersal In Anoles

Anolis porcatus is the most recent Caribbean anole to have been documented to consume and disperse seeds. Natural history research by Armas (2022) observes A. porcatus feeding on West Indian holly, and finds successful germination of the fecal pellets. Credit Thomas Brown (Wikimedia Commons).

Recent research on Anolis lizards has suggested their omnivorous tendencies might aid in the dispersal of seeds. Most recently, this was discussed by Giery et al. (2017), who reported Cuban Knight Anoles (A. equestris) to consume and disperse royal palms. This year, Armas (2022) reports Anolis porcatus consumes and disperses West Indian holly. Check it out!

New literature alert!

Consumption and Dispersal of West Indian Holly (Turnera ulmifolia, Turneraceae) Seeds by Cuban Green Anoles, Anolis porcatus (Squamata: Dactyloidae)

In Reptiles & Amphibians

Armas (2022)

Literature Cited:

de Armas, L. F. (2022). Consumption and Dispersal of West Indian Holly (Turnera ulmifolia, Turneraceae) Seeds by Cuban Green Anoles, Anolis porcatus (Squamata: Dactyloidae). Reptiles & Amphibians, 29(1), 115-116.

Giery, S. T., Vezzani, E., Zona, S., & Stroud, J. T. (2017). Frugivory and seed dispersal by the invasive knight anole (Anolis equestris) in Florida, USA. Food Webs, 11, 13-16.