The Lone Anole

This activity explores an image of an anole lizard, which serves as a phenomenon for learning  about adaptations and natural selection.

Anoles are a diverse group of lizards with nearly 400 known species. This image shows a male Plymouth anole displaying its bright yellow dewlap, the flap of skin attached to its throat. Each anole species has a dewlap of a characteristic color and shape, as well as specific head bobbing and dewlap displaying behaviors. These traits help anoles communicate with members of the same species, attract mates, and ward off predators.

The “Educator Materials” document includes background information and implementation suggestions for using the image as a phenomenon. The “Student Handout” includes the image and background information.

Image by Jonathan Losos, Harvard University

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