Natural and Artificial Selection - Adaptation

Question 1

what is an adaptation

Answer 1

a feature that enhances survival and long-term reproductive success

Question 2

what should a well-adapted organism be able to do

Answer 2

• find enough food/photosynthesise at a fast enough rate
• find enough water and mineral ions
• defend itself from predators and disease
• survive the physical conditions of its environment
• respond to changes in its environment
• be able to reproduce successfully

Question 3

define a behavioural adaptation

Answer 3

an aspect of the behaviour of the organism that allows it to survive where it lives

Question 4

define a physiological adaptation

Answer 4

internal and biochemical features that ensure the correct functioning of cell processes

Question 5

define an anatomical adaptation

Answer 5

any structure that enhances the survival of the organism

Question 6

give examples of behavioural adaptations

Answer 6

• hibernation
• migration

Question 7

give examples of physiological adaptations

Answer 7

• poison production
• temperature regulation

Question 8

give examples of anatomical adaptations

Answer 8

• camouflage
• sharp teeth

Question 9

give an example of a very well-adapted organism

Answer 9

Marram grass

Question 10

give some of the adaptations of Marram grass

Answer 10

• curled leaves
• folded lower epidermis, so stomata are placed in pits
• hairs on lower epidermis
• etiolation

Question 11

what is convergent evolution

Answer 11

the evolution of similar features in distantly related species

Question 12

why does convergent evolution occur

Answer 12

adaptations are controlled by the environment. this means that evolutionary distinct species that live in similar habitats often evolve similar adaoations

Question 13

give an example of convergent evolution

Answer 13

marsupial mole and placental mole (similar features but different embryological development)