Adaptations

Adaptations

by Hannes Lindeque

​Adaptation

​Adaptation is a change in structure, function, or behavior by which a species or individual improves its chance of survival in a specific environment.

There are three types of animal adaptations:

1. Structural/physical

2. Behavioural

3. Physiological

​Prey

Prey animals have adaptations that make them hard to see, hard to catch or difficult to eat. They might have spines, hard shells, nasty tastes, or produce toxins. These adaptations put off most predators. Defenceless prey can hide underground or use camouflage to blend in with their surroundings. A few use colour to mimic more dangerous species.

​Prey

​Prey animals have eyes on the sides of their heads (monocular vision) that helps them spot predators. Large ears also help, or a good sense of smell.

​Living in large groups makes life easier for prey. The predator will only catch one member - the slowest and weakest.

​Predators

​Predators have different adaptations. Forward-facing eyes (binocular vision) help them locate and focus on their prey. Weapons are also useful, like a sharp beak, teeth, or claws. Predators can also use camouflage to avoid detection.

​Moving Around

​In open spaces, speed is a useful adaptation. It can help predators catch their prey, and help prey avoid being eaten. Fast land animals usually have long legs and efficient lungs. Those that live in water have strong tail muscles. 

​Moving around

​The fastest animals have smooth streamlined shapes that narrow at both ends. In crowded forests speed is not so useful. Animals that live in trees need a good sense of balance and feet that can grip branches. 

Multiple Choice

Define "Adaptation"

• settle or find a solution to (a problem or contentious matter).

• a means of solving a problem or dealing with a difficult situation.

• a change in structure, function, or behavior by which a species or individual improves its chance of survival in a specific environment.

• the sum of the past achievements or performance of a person, organization, or thing.

Multiple Select

Which of the following are a form adaptations?

• Physical

• Psychological 

• Behavioural

• Physiological

• All of these

Multiple Choice

Naked mole rats let their body temperature vary, which saves energy. Which form of adaptation is this?

• Behavioural

• Structural

• Physiological

Multiple Choice

The Black Mamba is one of the most feared snakes. This is due to it's agility and speed. What adaptation would this be?

• Physiological

• Structural

• Behavioral

• Physical

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Multiple Choice

Marlin are predatory fish. They are able to swim at high speeds, what adaptation contributes to this?

• Physical

• Behavioral

• Structural

• Physiological

Multiple Choice

Wasps are ferocious predator insects. A lot hunt spiders exclusively! To breed and protect their larvae they build these nests, what form of adaptation is this?

• Behavioral

• Structural

• Physiological