Adaptations as Key Factors for Species Survival

• Explain why adaptations is a key factor for an organism's survival

• Distinguish the three types of adaptations and describe each type

• Explain the role of sexual reproduction in the process of adaptation

Adaptation - pertains to the ability of the organisms to respond to changes in the environment. For organisms to survive, they must have some structures, physiology, and behaviors that would enable them to meet the requirements of the new environment.

CAMOUFLAGE - the way that the colour or shape of an animal or plant appears to mix with its natural environment to prevent it from being seen and attacked.

Mimicry - occurs when one species of animal (the mimic) resembles another species that has easily recognizable characteristics and as a result deceives a potential predator that might otherwise capture and eat it. The model is usually poisonous, noxious, aggressive, or otherwise protected from predation, and its colors, odors, or behaviors signal to a potential predator that it is dangerous and therefore not worth pursuing.

Hibernation is when an animal slows its heart rate to save energy and survive the winter without eating much. Some animals just slow down and move less frequently during hibernation, but others go into a deep sleep and don’t wake up till spring.