Isolated: A Story of Survival, Episode 1: Islands of Fire and Coral

This documentary introduces the colonization and life of select volcanic islands. The plant life and animal inhabitants are captured through beautiful live-action videography. The focus is on ecosystems where biodiversity has thrived, magnifying abundant flora as well as endemic species that have specialized in adapting to the environment for survival. The Galapagos Islands, the Great Barrier Reef, and Komodo Island are explored, and species such as the giant Galapagos tortoise, marine iguanas, Komodo dragons, fiddler crabs, mud skippers, the cormorant bird, and various fish species are highlighted. Warm climates, little competition, and bountiful food have led species to investigate unexplored territories, leading to specialization and adaptation to survive in these isolated environments. Defensive techniques such as camouflage, venom/poison immunities, spines, horns, and alliances have provided additional mechanisms to aid survival. These isolated islands depend upon a world free of sudden change with no human interference to maintain balance and assure the survival of its inhabitants. While the program lacks a chapter selection option, it would still serve as a supplement in schools for units on animal science and evolution.–Linda M. Teel, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC