Lizards as Insular Pollinators

Studies show that in island regions, which are known for generating unique animal characteristics and behavior, lizards can be effective pollinators and seed dispersers. Some species are reported to be capable of collecting and carrying pollen loads, while others disperse droppings containing germinable seeds.

This dietary compensation of nectar and plant matter is hypothesized as being due to a lack of adequate insular arthropod populations, which typically serve as major pollinators and food sources for lizards on the mainland. That is not to say that this is a uniquely insular phenomenon as similar herbivorous behavior is seen in deserts with low arthropod populations.

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