Inherited Adaptations vs. Learned Traits By Erin Roozing

When we think of the word adaptation we think of “fitting in” When we think of the word adaptation we think of “fitting in”. All animals are either equipped with body parts or have learned new behaviors to become successful in surviving in the environment. Humans are a great example of an animal that is constantly in a state of adaptation. For example, when we want to be in environments that our bodies are not equipped for—like the ocean or space, we create equipment that allows us to be in those environments.

Animals survive in their habitat because of the special features on their bodies. One example of this is the shark. The shark, like all other fish, has gills that allow them to breathe underwater. They also have a streamlined body with fins so they can maneuver efficiently. The skin color variations of a shark also help it hunt. The underbelly is white because as you look up in ocean you see the light colors from the sky. The top of the shark is dark because colors are darker as you look down in the ocean.

Did you know that a shark’s tooth is adapted Did you know that a shark’s tooth is adapted? Sharks have rows of sharp teeth because they are ferocious hunters, however, if they accidentally swallow a tooth while chomping on a meal, a replacement tooth grows back in almost instantly!

Not only do body parts help an animal survive, but an animal may also change its behavior in order to survive in its changing habitat. A perfect example of this is the raccoon. Raccoons’ bodies are adapted to living in forests where they can nest in trees. Their diet usually consists of berries and fish. But now humans have moved into their areas and torn down their homes.

Now the raccoon finds new homes in people’s attics, garages, basements, and tool sheds. Their paws, which are equipped with fingers and claws, were meant to catch fish and berries. Now they have changed their behavior to dig into trashcans and open containers to get at our leftovers!

The shark and the raccoon are just a few examples of how animals are either equipped to thrive and survive in their environment or cope with their changing environment with new behaviors. Hibernating bears and a fox changing hair color to match the seasons are a few more examples. What adaptations can you think of?