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Tulane study finds lizards tolerate record-setting lead levels

Brown anoles in New Orleans remain active despite exposure

Genetic tests show only minor effects on tissues

Findings raise questions about lead resistance and human health

Brown anole lizards in New Orleans carry the highest blood-lead levels ever documented in a vertebrate, yet remain healthy and active, according to new research from Tulane University .

The study, published this month in , found that the reptiles’ blood-lead concentrations surpassed all previously reported levels in fish, birds, amphibians, reptiles and mammals. Researchers said the findings challenge long-standing assumptions about how much lead living organisms can tolerate.

Tulane scientists tested traits such as balance, sprint

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