Adaptations

• What is an extremophile?

  An organism adapted to extreme conditions
• Are specific examples of adaptations required in the exam specification?

  No, any living organism can be used
• How are camels adapted to desert conditions?

  They have structural adaptations for heat
• What is a structural adaptation of camels?

  Camels have a hump for fat storage
• How does the hump of a camel help it?

  It acts as a thermal insulator
• What is another structural adaptation of camels?

  Thick coat on the upper body
• Why do camels have leathery mouths?

  To eat thorny desert plants
• What do camels' long eyelashes do?

  Keep dust out of their eyes
• How do camels prevent dust from entering their nostrils?

  They can close their nostrils
• What is the purpose of camels' wide feet?

  To prevent sinking into the sand
• What is a functional adaptation of camels?

  They produce concentrated urine
• How do camels cope with body temperature changes?

  They tolerate large temperature changes
• What is a behavioral adaptation of kangaroo rats?

  They are nocturnal to avoid heat
• Where do kangaroo rats live during the day?

  In burrows underground
• What is a structural adaptation of the arctic fox?

  Thick fur for insulation
• How do the soles of arctic foxes' feet help them?

  They reduce heat loss to ice
• Why do arctic foxes have small ears?

  To reduce heat loss
• How does the arctic fox's coat help it?

  Provides effective camouflage
• What adaptation do cacti have to reduce water loss?

  Very small leaves or spines
• How do cacti catch water after rainfall?

  With extensive and shallow roots
• What do cacti store water in?

  In their stems
• What are extremophiles adapted to?

  Extreme conditions like high temperatures
• Where can extremophiles be found?

  In deep-sea vents
• What conditions do extremophiles tolerate?

  High pressures and temperatures
• What else can extremophiles live in?

  High concentrations of salt