Adaptations Flashcards
what are adaptations?
the name given to the features and characteristics that help organisms live in different environmental conditions
what structural adaptions may an animal in a cold environment have?
-white fur for camouflage- helps avoid predators and sneak up on prey
- a small surface area to volume ratio to help retain heat
-thick layer of fat for insulation
-large feet to distribute their load and increase grip on ice
-thick fur for insulation
What structural adaptations may an animal who lives in a hot environment have?
-a large surface area to volume ratio to help lose heat
-a thin layer of fat, fur or feathers as thinner insulation allows for better heat exchange and cooling
-light coloured fur or feathers to help reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption
what structural adaptations might a plant in hot environments have?
-reduced leaf surface area (e.g. they might have smaller or fewer leaves) to reduce water loss by transpiration
-roots that can reach deep into the soil for water even during drought conditions
-narrow leaves to minimise exposure to direct sunlight and overheating
What structural adaptations might a plant living in cold environments have?
-roots that are deep to allow them to get water deep in soil in frozen conditions
-fuzzy or hairy leaves to insulate against cold temperatures and reduce heat loss
what are behavioural adaptations?
the way organisms have adapted to behave
what behavioural adaptations may a plant or animal in cold environments have or what may they do during winter months?
-plants may slow down growth or become dormant to conserve energy during cold periods
-leaves may curl to reduce surface area and minimise water loss
-birds may migrate to warmer climates during winter months
-some animals may hibernate to lower their metabolic rate and conserve energy during the cold periods
-animals may huddle together in groups to conserve body heat
what behavioural adaptions may an animal or plant living in hot environments have?
-animals may have nocturnal activity meaning their mostly active during the cooler night time hours to avoid the heat of day
-animals may burrow to escape heat and regulate body temperatures underground
-plants may reduce growth rate during periods of extreme heat to conserve energy
-plants may remain dormants untill conditions become more favourable for germination
what are functional adaptations?
things that go on in an organisms body that can be related to processes like reproduction and metabolism?
give an example of a functional adaptations.
What are extremeophiles?
Organisms that are adapted to live in very extreme conditions e.g. in hot volcanic vents
