Island Dwarfism
When animals on islands become smaller than their relatives on the mainland.
What is it?
Island dwarfism is a type of evolution where animals living on islands grow smaller over time. This often happens because there is less food on islands, so smaller animals need less food and can survive better. The Eastern Long-nosed Viper on the Cyclades islands is smaller than the same species on the Greek mainland. Other examples include dwarf elephants that once lived on Mediterranean islands.
Why it matters
Island dwarfism shows how animals adapt to their environment. It helps scientists understand evolution and how species change over time.
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