Island gigantism

2023-12-16Hacker NewsShare on TwitterShare on LinkedinCopy link

Summary:
  • Island gigantism is a biological phenomenon where animals on isolated islands grow much larger than their mainland relatives.
  • This is part of the "island effect" or "Foster's rule," which suggests that small species evolve larger bodies on islands, while large species evolve smaller bodies.
  • Island gigantism is often a result of the removal of constraints related to predation and competition, allowing animals to grow larger.
  • Many giant island species have become extinct due to the arrival of humans and introduced predators.
  • Island gigantism is found in various vertebrate groups and invertebrates, as well as in some plants.
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