Key topic 5- Adaptation, interdependence and competion Flashcards
(21 cards)
What is adaptation?
A characteristic that helps an organism survive and reproduce in its environment.
What are the two main types of adaptations?
Structural (physical features) and behavioral (actions or habits).
Give an example of a structural adaptation.
Thick fur in arctic animals to keep warm.
Give an example of a behavioral adaptation.
Birds migrating to warmer places during winter.
Why are adaptations important?
They increase the chances of survival and reproduction in specific environments.
What is interdependence?
The way living organisms depend on each other and their environment to survive.
What are examples of interdependence?
Food chains, pollination, seed dispersal, and symbiotic relationships.
What happens if one species in a food chain is removed?
It can disrupt the whole ecosystem and affect other species.
What is a food chain?
A sequence showing how energy is transferred from one organism to another through feeding.
What is symbiosis?
A close relationship between two different species that benefits at least one of them.
What is competition?
When two or more organisms or species fight for the same limited resources like food, water, or space.
Why does competition happen?
Because resources are limited, and organisms need them to survive and reproduce.
What are the two types of competition?
Intraspecific (within the same species) and interspecific (between different species).
How can competition affect populations?
It can reduce population size, limit growth, or cause one species to move or die out.
How do organisms reduce competition?
By adapting to use different resources, living in different habitats, or being active at different times.
Write 3 adaptations animals undergo while living in the arctic
Thick fur or blubber for insulation against cold. - Polar bears
White fur for camouflage in snow. - Arctic foxes
Small extremities (ears, tails) to reduce heat loss. - snowshoe hare
Write 3 adaptations plants undergo while living in the arctic
Low-growing to avoid cold winds — Arctic willow.
Dark colors to absorb heat — Bearberry.
Small leaves to reduce water loss — Labrador tea.
Write 3 adaptations animals undergo while living in the desert
Ability to store water — Camel.
Nocturnal behavior — Fennec fox.
Light-colored fur to reflect sunlight — Jerboa.
Write 3 adaptations plants undergo while living in the arctic
Thick, waxy cuticles — Cactus.
Deep or widespread roots — Mesquite tree.
Spines instead of leaves — cactus.
Write 3 adaptations animals undergo while living in the rainforest
Bright colors for camouflage — Poison dart frog.
Strong limbs or claws for climbing — Howler monkey.
Loud calls to communicate — Toco toucan.
Write 3 adaptations plants undergo while living in the rainforest
Large leaves to capture more sunlight — Banana plant.
Drip tips on leaves — Heliconia.
Buttress roots for stability — Kapok tree.
