‘Vibrant' creatures — that can change color — are ‘cryptic' new species in Cuba
How can you tell two species apart? You would never confuse a human with a chimpanzee, even with their shared ancestry. A manatee could never be mistaken for an elephant, despite their close relation.
This gets harder, however, when two species look nearly identical on the outside.
Take the anole — a small, neotropical lizard found in the leafy canopy and tops of trees across the Caribbean.
Cuba is the only landmass with multiple species of the Anolis carolinensis subgroup, or green anoles, according to a study published April 24 in the peer-reviewed journal Vertebrate Zoology.
However, when researchers began comparing anoles from the east side of the island to the west, originally thought to belong to the same species, they started noticing some differences, according to the study.
This raised four questions used to determine if two animals are different species.
Are green anoles in Cuba phenotypically distinct? This asks if there are observable differences between anoles in different regions, or if they look exactly the same to the naked eye.'Are any of the Cuban green anoles geographically isolated from one another?' When animals of the same species are separated for long periods of time, their genetics can diverge and become different enough that they can no longer breed, making them individual species.'Are the Cuban green anoles ecologically distinct?' Do the green anoles live in different physical environments that require different behavior or adaptations to survive?'Are the Cuban green anoles distinct lineages?' This brings the comparison down to the genetic level, asking whether researchers can see a divergence in their DNA.
As researchers answered each question, they realized the anoles living on the east side of Cuba met the criteria to be a 'cryptic,' or hidden, new species — Anolis torresfundorai, or the eastern Cuba green anole.
The eastern Cuba green anoles are about 2.5 inches long, with a 'vibrant green body' and 'whitish underside,' according to the study.
'It has a distinct thin median white stripe' with 'dark and wider stripes running along the length of its back,' researchers said.
The scales around their eyelids have a 'bluish tone,' and males can have an additional spot on their shoulders, according to the study.
'As other green anoles it has two color phases, light, where the animals are green, and a dark, where they turn brown,' researchers said.
Green anoles have specialized structures under the skin that allow them to change color under different conditions, the Tuscaloosa News reported. It could be environmental changes like temperature and humidity, hormonal changes or potentially some kind of emotional response, according to the outlet.
'This new species is easily distinguishable from its closest relative in Cuba, A. allisoni in having fewer temporal scales, a higher frontal ridge than the (ridge connecting the eye and nostril), rounded ear opening instead of elongated, and males being completely green in light phase (blue head and torso in most male A. allisoni),' researchers said.
Externally, the eastern Cuba green anole is not 'easily distinguishable' from A. porcatus, a 'more distantly related' species, the study said.
'However, we also found that A. porcatus and (the eastern Cuba green anole) are geographically isolated, genetically divergent and that both species are ecologically distinct from one another and from A. allisoni,' researchers said.
The new species was named after Orlando J. Torres Fundora, an emeritus professor and lifelong scientist studying and conserving Cuban nature, according to the study.
The new species was found in eastern Cuba, an island nation off the southern coast of Florida in the Caribbean Sea.
The research team includes Javier Torres, Dexter Reilly, Claudia Nuñez-Penichet, R. Graham Reynolds and Richard E. Glor.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Miami Herald
11 hours ago
- Miami Herald
Scientists Make World's Smallest Violin
Scientists in the United Kingdom have made what may be the world's smallest violin, using advanced nanotechnology. The microscopic instrument, measuring 35 by 13 microns, and constructed from platinum, is less than the width of a human hair, said Loughborough University researchers. The tiny violin was created to demonstrate the accuracy and versatility of a state-of-the-art nanolithography system. Kelly Morrison, the head of Loughborough University's Physics Department, said the system would allow scientists "to design experiments that probe materials in different ways-using light, magnetism, or electricity-and observe their responses." Scientists said the technology could accelerate breakthroughs in sectors such as computing and energy, allowing researchers to build and study materials at the smallest scale. The miniature violin was made using a NanoFrazor, a system that employs thermal scanning probe lithography. This technique uses a heated, needlelike tip to sculpt material at nanometer precision. According to the university's press release, the process began with a chip being covered in two layers a gel-like material. The pattern was then etched, washed and coated in platinum, then cleaned again to show the final form. Each violin took about three hours to produce after the fabrication sequence was determined, but it took months of development. The violin, which is only an image at microscopic scale, cannot produce sound. The institution said the violin had not been officially confirmed as the world's smallest, though it is smaller than the diameter of a human hair, which typically measures 17 to 180 microns (a micron is a millionth of a meter). Research projects using the nanolithography system to investigate applications-such as developing energy-efficient and faster data storage by combining advanced materials and nanoparticles-are underway at the university. Other research explores quantum materials to make next-generation memory devices smaller, faster and more reliable, and the nanolithography system helps to produce accurate test structures. The team said the knowledge gained from the violin process was vital for these advances. The expression "world's smallest violin" is often used to mock exaggerated complaints. It is believed to have originated in a 1978 episode of M*A*S*H when Major Margaret Houlihan, rubbing her thumb and forefinger together, said: "It's the world's smallest violin, and it's playing just for you," According to ClassicFM. Kelly Morrison, the head of Loughborough University's Physics Department, said in a press release: "Though creating the world's smallest violin may seem like fun and games, a lot of what we've learned in the process has actually laid the groundwork for the research we're now undertaking." She added: "I'm really excited about the level of control and possibilities we have with the setup. I'm looking forward to seeing what I can achieve-but also what everyone else can do with the system." The researchers plan to use the experience and protocols established during this project in ongoing work on data storage and quantum material studies, furthering research into advanced computing technologies. Related Articles Woman's Friend Lives 2,000 Miles Away, Sends Iconic Birthday GiftViolinist on Southwest Flight Ignites DebateItzhak Perlman: I Had Polio-Its Resurgence Angers Me When We Have a VaccineAdorable Moment Little Girl Hugs Violinist Melts Viewers' Hearts 2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
Newsweek
14 hours ago
- Newsweek
Scientists Make World's Smallest Violin
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Scientists in the United Kingdom have made what may be the world's smallest violin, using advanced nanotechnology. The microscopic instrument, measuring 35 by 13 microns, and constructed from platinum, is less than the width of a human hair, said Loughborough University researchers. Why It Matters The tiny violin was created to demonstrate the accuracy and versatility of a state-of-the-art nanolithography system. Kelly Morrison, the head of Loughborough University's Physics Department, said the system would allow scientists "to design experiments that probe materials in different ways—using light, magnetism, or electricity—and observe their responses." Scientists said the technology could accelerate breakthroughs in sectors such as computing and energy, allowing researchers to build and study materials at the smallest scale. The 'world's smallest violin' created by Loughborough University physicists. The 'world's smallest violin' created by Loughborough University physicists. Loughborough University What To Know The miniature violin was made using a NanoFrazor, a system that employs thermal scanning probe lithography. This technique uses a heated, needlelike tip to sculpt material at nanometer precision. According to the university's press release, the process began with a chip being covered in two layers a gel-like material. The pattern was then etched, washed and coated in platinum, then cleaned again to show the final form. Each violin took about three hours to produce after the fabrication sequence was determined, but it took months of development. The violin, which is only an image at microscopic scale, cannot produce sound. The institution said the violin had not been officially confirmed as the world's smallest, though it is smaller than the diameter of a human hair, which typically measures 17 to 180 microns (a micron is a millionth of a meter). Research projects using the nanolithography system to investigate applications—such as developing energy-efficient and faster data storage by combining advanced materials and nanoparticles—are underway at the university. Other research explores quantum materials to make next-generation memory devices smaller, faster and more reliable, and the nanolithography system helps to produce accurate test structures. The team said the knowledge gained from the violin process was vital for these advances. The expression "world's smallest violin" is often used to mock exaggerated complaints. It is believed to have originated in a 1978 episode of M*A*S*H when Major Margaret Houlihan, rubbing her thumb and forefinger together, said: "It's the world's smallest violin, and it's playing just for you," According to ClassicFM. Professor Kelly Morrison, left, with Dr. Naëmi Leo, in front of the Loughborough University nanolithography system. Dr. Leo holds the chip that features the image of 'the world's smallest violin'. Professor Kelly Morrison, left, with Dr. Naëmi Leo, in front of the Loughborough University nanolithography system. Dr. Leo holds the chip that features the image of 'the world's smallest violin'. Loughborough University What People Are Saying Kelly Morrison, the head of Loughborough University's Physics Department, said in a press release: "Though creating the world's smallest violin may seem like fun and games, a lot of what we've learned in the process has actually laid the groundwork for the research we're now undertaking." She added: "I'm really excited about the level of control and possibilities we have with the setup. I'm looking forward to seeing what I can achieve—but also what everyone else can do with the system." What Happens Next The researchers plan to use the experience and protocols established during this project in ongoing work on data storage and quantum material studies, furthering research into advanced computing technologies.
Buzz Feed
2 days ago
- Buzz Feed
Why Mosquitoes Bite Some People More Often Explained
If you've ever been at an outdoor party or BBQ during the fading hours of daylight and don't personally notice an increase in the number of mosquitoes, you'll probably hear someone complaining about it. That's because mosquitoes are selective insects, and some people are more likely to get bites than others. There are a few factors that could contribute to why this happens: In one controlled study by the Journal of Medical Entomology, the bugs landed on people with blood Type O nearly twice as frequently as those with Type A. The researchers noted this has to do with secretions we produce, which tips mosquitoes off on a person's blood type. More research needs to be conducted on mosquitoes' potential preference for certain blood types over others, said Jonathan F. Day, an entomology professor at the University of Florida. But he agreed that mosquitoes do pick up on some cues we give off that make the bugs more likely to land on certain people. 'These cues let them know they are going to a blood source,' Day said. 'Perhaps CO2 is the most important. The amount of CO2 you produce, like people with high metabolic rates ― genetic, other factors ― increases the amount of carbon dioxide you give off. The more you give off, the more attractive you are to these arthropods.' But what separates us from the nonliving entities that give off carbon dioxide, like cars? Mosquitoes look for primary cues in conjunction with what Day calls 'secondary cues.' Lactic acid — the stuff that causes our muscles to cramp during exercise — is one of those secondary cues, for example. Lactic acid is released through the skin, signaling to mosquitoes that we are a target, Day said. Mosquitoes also have other qualities that help them pick up on secondary cues. 'Mosquitoes have excellent vision, but they fly close to the ground to stay out of the wind,' Day said. 'They are able to contrast you with the horizon, so how you're dressed matters. If you have on dark clothes, you are going to attract more because you'll stand out from the horizon, whereas those wearing light colors won't as much.' A mosquito also takes in 'tactile cues' once it has landed on you. 'Body heat is a really important tactile cue,' Day said. 'That comes into play with genetic differences or physiological differences. Some people tend to run a little warmer — when they land, they're looking for a place where blood is close to the skin.' That means those whose temperatures are a little higher are more likely to get the bite. Lifestyle or other health factors may also play a role, said Melissa Piliang, a dermatologist at Cleveland Clinic. 'If body temperature is higher, you're exercising and moving around a lot, or if you're drinking alcohol, you are more attractive to mosquitoes,' Piliang said. 'Being pregnant or being overweight also increases metabolic rate.' One study showed that people who consumed just one can of beer were more at risk of attracting mosquitoes than those who didn't. Of course, drinking outside is a popular summer and fall activity. 'If you've been moving around all day doing yardwork and then you stop around dusk and drink a beer on your patio, you're definitely at risk of bites,' Piliang said. Just because you might be more prone to bites doesn't mean they have to be an inevitability. 'One of the very best things to do is to avoid peak activity times [for mosquitoes],' Day said. 'There are very, very few species that are active in the middle of the day. They are very selective. Sunrise and sunset are when you'll see peak activity.' Switching your early morning run to an after-work run could help here. Of course, this tip won't help you if you're, say, throwing a BBQ for friends later at night. Try to cover as much skin as you can in these cases, Day said, especially in areas or at times mosquitoes are most likely to be present. 'I love the fishing shirts and the long-legged outdoor pants that are breathable, but they prevent mosquitoes,' Day said. 'A repellent that has a good protection time ― defined as the time from when you apply to when you get the first bite ― is also great. Roughly 5% DEET sprays gives you 90 minutes of complete coverage.' DEET is a common ingredient in insect repellents, and sprays with DEET are probably the way to go if you know you're at risk of bites, Piliang said. Despite the controversy over the health effects of DEET, a 2014 review by the Environmental Protection Agency re-concluded that normal use of DEET products does not pose a risk to one's health, including children, pregnant women and breastfeeding women. 'DEET is the most effective,' Piliang said. 'If you are going to be in a mosquito-prone place, knowing that they carry disease, it is your best bet. Take a shower later to wash it off, and put on just a little bit.' Always read the directions on a spray before using it, and help children apply products by following the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. And while you may have heard that candles containing natural repellents like citronella oil can be useful, there is no research to support it yet. Instead, keep the fan on or hang out in a breezy area. 'Mosquitoes can't get around very much,' especially in wind, Piliang said. 'You can run a fan to keep air moving.' If you do end up with a bite, you may or may not be bothered. 'This all depends on how allergic you are to the chemicals in the saliva of the mosquito, and that can vary based on the type of the mosquito or how reactive you and your skin are to things in the environment,' Piliang said. If it is itchy, the worst possible thing you can do is scratch it. 'If you do, then more histamine is released and it gets itchier,' she said. 'If you scratch it, you're also more likely to break skin. You can get bleeding, scabs and put yourself at risk for infection and scarring.' But there are a few simple things you can do to alleviate the itch, like putting an ice cube on it. 'The sensation of cold travels on the same nerve as itch, so you cannot feel both at the same time,' Piliang said. 'Even a drink with ice on it will help relieve itch immediately.' If you've received several bites after a morning or evening outside, she also recommended over-the-counter anti-itch creams with a mild topical steroid like hydrocortisone. 'You can apply that two to three times a day to reduce itch,' she said. 'And the last thing you can do if you're really bit up is take an antihistamine,' she added. 'It can counteract the reaction a bit.' While OTC types that make you drowsy — like Benadryl — are more common, you can take non-drowsy antihistamines like Zyrtec or Allegra for daytime relief. Of course, prevention is always better than treatment, so use these tips to stave off bites in the first place as you head out for the season's remaining BBQs and tailgates. HuffPost.
