Adaptations

• What are adaptations in organisms?


  Adaptations are traits that allow organisms to survive and reproduce in their specific environments.
• What are the three types of adaptations organisms can have?

  • Structural adaptations
  • Behavioural adaptations
  • Functional (physiological) adaptations
• What is a structural adaptation?


  A structural adaptation is a physical feature of an organism's body.
• Give an example of a structural adaptation in Arctic animals.


  Thick fur in Arctic animals helps conserve heat.
• How do cacti demonstrate structural adaptations?


  Cacti have spines to reduce water loss and protect them from herbivores.
• What is a behavioural adaptation?


  A behavioural adaptation is the way organisms act to survive in their environment.
• What is an example of a behavioural adaptation in birds?


  Birds migrating to warmer regions during winter to find food is an example.
• Why are nocturnal animals active at night?


  Nocturnal animals are active at night to avoid heat during the day.
• What is a functional (physiological) adaptation?


  A functional adaptation involves internal processes that help the organism survive.
• How do desert animals demonstrate functional adaptations?


  Desert animals produce concentrated urine to reduce water loss.
• How do cacti store water as a functional adaptation?


  Cacti store water in their tissues for use during droughts.
• What are extremophiles?


  Extremophiles are organisms adapted to live in extreme environments.
• What types of extreme environments can extremophiles inhabit?


  • High temperatures (e.g., hot springs)
  • High pressure (e.g., deep sea vents)
  • High salt concentrations (e.g., salt flats)