Adaptation

• What does the process of adaptation produce?

  Adaptive traits
• Why is it incorrect to say that the characteristic itself is the adaptation?

  Because adaptation refers to the process, not the trait
• What are environmental factors that affect reproductive success called?

  Selective pressures
• What is the definition of adaptation in a species?

  Change in a species as useful traits become common
• What is referred to as an adaptive trait?

  A useful characteristic
• How can adaptive traits be observed in living organisms?

  They may be seen in many forms
• Why do sharks, dolphins, and penguins have streamlined bodies?

  To efficiently catch food or escape predators
• What is the purpose of nectar guides in flowers?

  To indicate the center and attract pollinators
• How do mammals and birds maintain body temperature?

  By being endothermic and avoiding energy waste
• What happens to a hedgehog's body temperature during hibernation?

  It drops to around 3°C
• Why do deciduous plants fall in autumn?

  To avoid losing water by transpiration
• When does _Crataegus laevigata_ flower, and why?

  In spring, when pollinating insects have emerged
• What is the purpose of a peacock's tail display?

  To increase chances of reproduction
• What is the impact of global warming on animal behavior?

  • Animals adapt their behavior in response
  • Changes in migration patterns
  • Altered feeding habits
• What does natural selection favor in organisms?

  Adaptations that improve survival chances
• What behaviors are influenced by natural selection?

  Migration patterns of birds
• What is the relationship between adaptations and selective pressures?

  • Adaptations improve survival chances
  • Selective pressures are environmental factors
  • Natural selection acts on these adaptations