Organisms & Environments STAAR Prep 1

Which of the following statements describes how an armadillo interacts with both biotic and abiotic factors in its environment?

• A. Armadillos can hold their breath for long periods of time and can walk short distances underwater.

• B. Armadillos burrow in moist soil looking for grubs and termites to eat.

• C. Armadillos escape predators by rolling into a ball or burrowing underground.

• D. Armadillos eat small insects or soft plants.

Which is NOT a way that rattlesnakes interact with biotic factors in their environment?

• A. Rattlesnakes inject their prey with venom.

• B. Rattlesnakes will often hibernate in a den with hundreds of other snakes.

• C. Rattlesnakes burrow underground to avoid extreme temperatures.

• D. Rattlesnakes prey on small mammals and lizards.

Which statement might explain why the addax is endangered and the gemsbok is not?

• The addax are not fast enough to escape predators, and the gemsbok can escape quickly.

• The addax are unable to protect themselves, since their horns are not straight.

• The addax and the gemsbok are not able to find water in their environment.

• Only the addax has hooves that help it walk on sand.

The walrus and the sea lion are marine animals. The walrus lives in cold, icy waters and the sea lion can be found in warm, tropical waters. Both of them have long whiskers on their snout. How do whiskers benefit both the Walrus and the Sea Lion?

• Whiskers allow the animals to stay warm in cold waters.

• Whiskers help protect the animals from predators.

• Whiskers help the animals move through their environment.

• Whiskers help the animals sense its surroundings to find prey and avoid predators.

How do dolphins survive in their ocean environment?

• By burrowing underground

• By hibernating during the winter

• By using echolocation to find food

• By flying to warmer climates

Which adaptation helps a hawk survive in a forest environment?

• Webbed feet for swimming

• Sharp talons for catching prey

• Large ears for hearing in the dark

• Scales for protection from predators

What adaptation helps a rabbit survive in a grassland environment?

• Sharp teeth for chewing meat

• Webbed feet for swimming

• Fast running speed to escape predators

• Scales for protection from the sun

What physical trait of armadillos help armadillos from being preyed upon?

• Their armored shell

• Their speed

• Their ability to climb trees

• Their sharp claws

What feature helps a cactus survive in a hot desert environment?

• Large leaves for capturing sunlight

• Brightly colored flowers for attracting insects

• Long, flowing branches for climbing trees

• Thick, waxy skin to prevent water loss

What physical characteristic of a rain forest ecosystem supports a diverse population of plants and animals?

• Dry climate

• Cold temperatures

• High humidity

• Sparse vegetation