The Invasive Black Spiny-tailed Iguana (Ctenosaura similis): Insights from Diet, Parasites, and Genetics
College
College of Arts and Sciences
Mentor Information
Ryan McCleary
Description
The Black Spiny-tailed Iguana (Ctenosaura similis), native to Mexico and Central America, is invasive to Florida following its introduction in the 1980s. Research on C. similis integrates anatomical examination, parasite identification, genetic characterization, and gut content analysis to better understand its ecological impact. Specimens culled by authorized agencies were utilized as a source of otherwise unused biological samples. To date, nearly 30 carcasses have been dissected, yielding data on diet and endoparasite fauna as well as providing insight into the species’ potential effects on native ecosystems through resource competition and predation. Although their identification has been problematic, a range of internal parasites have been collected, contributing to understanding factors that may influence iguana health and population dynamics. Additionally, tissue samples have been collected for future DNA extraction, which we hope will enhance our knowledge of the species’ population-level relationships and invasion history. Collectively, with these multidisciplinary approaches, we hope to provide a comprehensive evaluation of C. similis to help inform management strategies aimed at mitigating its impact as an invasive species.
The Invasive Black Spiny-tailed Iguana (Ctenosaura similis): Insights from Diet, Parasites, and Genetics
The Black Spiny-tailed Iguana (Ctenosaura similis), native to Mexico and Central America, is invasive to Florida following its introduction in the 1980s. Research on C. similis integrates anatomical examination, parasite identification, genetic characterization, and gut content analysis to better understand its ecological impact. Specimens culled by authorized agencies were utilized as a source of otherwise unused biological samples. To date, nearly 30 carcasses have been dissected, yielding data on diet and endoparasite fauna as well as providing insight into the species’ potential effects on native ecosystems through resource competition and predation. Although their identification has been problematic, a range of internal parasites have been collected, contributing to understanding factors that may influence iguana health and population dynamics. Additionally, tissue samples have been collected for future DNA extraction, which we hope will enhance our knowledge of the species’ population-level relationships and invasion history. Collectively, with these multidisciplinary approaches, we hope to provide a comprehensive evaluation of C. similis to help inform management strategies aimed at mitigating its impact as an invasive species.
