Americas’ hookup not so ancient after all

Latest volley in Panama land bridge debate pegs age at 3 million years

Isthmus of Panama

CONTENTIOUS CONNECTION  The age of the narrow strip of land that links North and South America is at the center of a debate among scientists. The rocky coasts of the Isthmus of Panama (shown) alter ocean currents and the world’s climate.

A. O’Dea

A debate over when the gap between North and South America closed has opened a rift in the scientific community.