Adaptations Flashcards
structural adaptaion
a physical feature of an organism’s body having a specific function that contributes to the survival of the organism
behavioural adapation
something an organism does that helps it survive
physiological adaptation
a physical or chemical event that occurs within the body of an organism and enables survival
structural adaptation in plants
formation of spines, which are found on many species, such as cacti and roses, and can stop a plant being eaten by grazing animals. / plants with wide-ranging, shallow roots to absorb lots of water after rain / large leaves to maximise photosynthesis / flowers which attract insects to pollinate them.
behavioural adaptation in plants
plant shoots grow quickly towards the light to maximise photosynthesis./ Plant roots which grow downwards may be because of gravity or growing directly towards water to maximise photosynthesis. / closing of venus trap to catch an insect
physiological adaptation in plants
formation of poisons for defence. The nettle plant stings us when we brush the tiny needles on its leaves, which contain poison.
structural adaptation in animals
sharp claws to catch prey, dig burrows or scratch trees to signal territories / good vision and hearing. Prey often has eyes on the sides of their heads to easily spot predators / Predators often have their eyes on the front of their heads to judge distance to their prey.
behavioural adaptation in animals
mating rituals, like a male peacock bird showing his tail feathers to attract a female mate. / working together in packs like wolves to hunt prey. / using tools. For example, crocodiles use twigs to lure birds, who would pick them up to build nests.
physiological adaptation in animals
production of venom Many predators such as snakes and spiders produce venom both to defend themselves and kill their prey.
