Iguana shocks zookeepers with "virgin birth" of 8 hatchlings
Iguana shocks zookeepers with "virgin birth" of 8 hatchlings
“When we confirmed the eggs were fertile without any contact with a male, our jaws hit the floor,” a U.K. zoo director said after an iguana gave birth to eight healthy babies.
Read the full article on CBS World
Truth Analysis
Analysis Summary:
The article reports on a rare instance of parthenogenesis in an iguana. While the general concept of parthenogenesis is scientifically valid, the specific claim of this event occurring at the stated zoo lacks external verification. The article presents the information in a straightforward manner with minimal apparent bias.
Detailed Analysis:
- Claim: Iguana gave birth to eight healthy babies via parthenogenesis.
- Assessment: Unverified. While parthenogenesis is a known biological phenomenon, the specific claim of it occurring in this instance at the stated zoo is unverified due to the lack of provided external sources. It is plausible, but requires independent confirmation.
- Claim: Zoo director expressed surprise at the event.
- Assessment: Unverified. This is a statement attributed to an individual. Without further sources, it's impossible to verify the director's statement directly, but it is a reasonable reaction given the rarity of parthenogenesis in reptiles.
Supporting Evidence/Contradictions:
- Parthenogenesis is a scientifically recognized form of asexual reproduction.
- Lack of independent verification for the specific event reported.