Some Iguanas May Have Floated Across the Pacific Ocean 30 Million Years Ago

Ancestor: (adj. ancestor) Refers to a family member from previous generations, like a parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent. It can also denote a species, genus, family, or a higher taxonomic group from which other organisms evolved. For instance, ancient dinosaurs are the ancestors of contemporary birds. (Anonymous: descendants)

Biologist: Scientists who specialize in the study of living organisms.

Evolution: (v. evolving) The process through which species change over periods of time, primarily driven by genetic variation and natural selection. These adaptations often give rise to new organisms better suited to their environments. While the newly adapted types may not be considered “advanced,” they are tailored to specific ecological conditions. The term may also apply to gradual changes such as the evolution of computer chips into smaller, faster devices.

Evolutionary Biologist: A scientist focusing on the processes of adaptation that have contributed to Earth’s biodiversity. Their research may encompass various topics, including microbiology, genetics, species adaptations, and fossil records for understanding the relationships among ancient species.

Evolution: (adj. evolution) Refers to gradual changes occurring over generations or extended timeframes. In organisms, these changes typically involve random genetic variations passed down to subsequent generations, resulting in new traits like color shifts, altered disease resistance, or variations in physical features (such as legs, antennae, and organs). Non-living entities are also described as evolving when they undergo changes over time; for example, computers are said to evolve through miniaturization.

Extinct: An adjective used to describe a species that no longer has any living members.

Fossil: A preserved remnant or imprint of ancient life. Fossils can take various forms, such as “body fossils” like dinosaur bones or “trace fossils” like footprints. Even fossilized droppings are included. The process through which fossils are formed is known as fossilization.

Genetic: Pertaining to chromosomes, DNA, and the genes contained within. The scientific discipline that deals with these biological instructions is called genetics, and professionals in this field are known as geneticists.

Genome: The complete set of genes or genetic material in a cell or organism. The field of study focusing on this hereditary information within cells is referred to as genomics.

Genus: (plural: genera) A classification grouping that includes closely related species. For example, the genus Canis encompasses all dogs and their wild relatives, such as wolves, coyotes, and jackals.

Lizard: A four-legged reptile known for its scaly skin and elongated tail. Unlike many reptiles, lizards have mobile eyelids. Examples include the Tuatara, Chameleons, Komodo Dragons, and Gila Monsters.

Pacific: The largest of the world’s five oceans, separating Asia and Australia to the west from North and South America to the east.

Probability: A mathematical analytical method used to evaluate the likelihood of an event occurring (essentially, a chance).

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences: A prestigious journal that publishes original scientific research, established in 1914. Its scope includes biological, physical, and social sciences, with over 3,000 papers published annually, all subject to peer review and approval from National Academy of Sciences members.

Sea: A body of saltwater, part of the ocean. Unlike freshwater lakes and streams, seawater has a high salt content.

Seed: A collection of similar organisms that can survive and reproduce, generating offspring capable of reproduction.

Spider: An arthropod characterized by having eight legs and the ability to spin silk threads, which they use for constructing webs and other structures.

Vegetation: A term describing lush green plants. It refers to a community of plants typically comprising low shrubs and short plants, excluding tall trees.

Vertebrate: A group of animals characterized by having a brain, two eyes, and a stiff nerve cord or backbone. This group includes amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals, and most fish.