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An adaptation is a trait that gives an organism an advantage for survival in a particular environment. Adaptations are "favorable variations."
An adaptation is a trait that gives an organism an advantage for survival in a particular environment. Adaptations are "favorable variations."
Examples of adaptations:
Examples of adaptations:
White fur is an adaptation in a snowy environment. It helps the organism to camouflage (blend in) with its environment. This helps organisms to sneak up on prey, or to hide from predators.
Would white fur be an adaptation for a forest environment? NO
White fur would NOT blend in well with a dark, forest environment. White fur in a dark forest would be a disadvantage.
In a forest environment, darker fur is an adaptive trait, because it helps the bear to blend in with its environment.
What are some adaptations that BOTH polar bears AND grizzly bears share?
- Sharp teeth and sharp claws. Bears are predators, and this is an adaptation that helps both bears capture and eat their food.
- Sharp eyesight and sense of hearing. Good senses are an adaptation for any species.
- Strength and speed- bears are pretty fast for their size. They are also very strong. This helps the bears to defend territory.
EAR SIZE- an adaptation for body temperature regulation.
EAR SIZE- an adaptation for body temperature regulation.
Did you know that in very hot climates LARGE ear size is an adaptation? Large ears help to release heat and keep the organisms cool. Look at the ears of the desert Fennec Fox and the desert Jack Rabbit. They are suited for their environment. Natural selection, over many generations, favored organisms with large ears.
This same trait is a disadvantage in very cold climates. In cold environments, organisms want to save heat, not lose it. In cold environments, organisms tend to have very small ears. Smaller ears are an adaptation for survival to prevent heat loss. Look at the ears on the Arctic hare and the Arctic fox!
Why do organisms in cold climates have smaller ears, while organisms in hot climates tend to have large ears? NATURAL SELECTION.
Why do organisms in cold climates have smaller ears, while organisms in hot climates tend to have large ears? NATURAL SELECTION.
Please note- animals do not "choose" to have these traits- these traits are frequent in certain populations because over MANY generations, these were the traits that were most likely to survive in the environment. Over many generations, these were the traits that were passed on to offspring. Over many generations, these traits increased in frequency. The most frequent traits observed in a population are the result of NATURAL SELECTION.
Do plants have adaptations?
Do plants have adaptations?
Yes- of course! Here are some examples of adaptations that are seen in various plant species:
- Bright colors and sweet scents to attract pollinators
- Thorns and thick coverings to protect from herbivores
- Poisonous chemicals or bad tastes to deter herbivores
- Waxy coverings to prevent water loss
- Branching roots to absorb water and remain stable in the soil.
Are all adaptations physical traits?
Are all adaptations physical traits?
- No- organisms exhibit many behavioral adaptations as well. Some examples include:
- Mating calls, territorial noises, territorial marking
- Migration
- Hibernation
- Grooming
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