Experiments on dispersal: Short-term floatation of insular anoles, with a review of similar abilities in other terrestrial animals

摘要: The floatation ability of a common Carribean insular lizard, Anolis sagrei, was tested under controlled conditions in laboratory seawater wave tank. Short-term passive abilities are extensive: all 39 animals survived 1 h, and 30% those were still afloat by 24 h.The survival times for anoles much greater than reported the literature 19 species small mammals freshwater; only mediumsized have comparable abilities. Floatation, unaided rafts, is likely means dispersal perhaps other lizards between nearby islands such as Bahamas. on observed overwater distances non-volant tabulated; data rather scarce.