Adaptations
What is an adaptation? An adaptation is any structure, process, or behavior that helps an organism survive in its environment. In an ever changing environment, adaptations determine which individuals are more likely to survive and reproduce.
Why are adaptations Important? They help organisms to get food! They help organisms eat. Beak shape in birds depending on what they eat Giraffes have a long neck to reach treetops Some trees have broad, thin leaves to help absorb light energy
Why are adaptations important? To help organisms escape from predators Protective skin-porcupines have quills, turtles have shells Bad smell-skunks Thorns-roses Camouflage-tsome frogs, moths, etc. have colors that blend in with their surroundings Some predators use camouflage too! It helps them blend in so they can catch prey!
Why are adaptations Important? It helps organisms to attract mates Big, elaborate feathers, like peacocks Elaborate antlers or horns like Elk Plants use color and smell to help attract pollinators
Why are adaptations Important? Help organisms deal with weather changes Some animals in Ohio hibernate in the winter Birds Migrate Some trees lose their leaves in the winter
3 Types of Adaptations Anatomical or Physical Behavioral Physiological or process
Physical Adaptations Adaptations that are related to parts of the body. Physical Features Turtle shells Thorns on Flowers
Behavioral Adaptations Things organisms (plants and animals) DO to survive or reproduce Mating dances done by some animals
Physiological Adaptations An organisms automatic response to a specific change in its habitat or environment in order to maintain homeostasis (balance) Snakes produce venom Octopus sprays ink when threatened
Common Adaptations Camouflage: An adaptation that allows an organism to blend in with its surrounding
Common Adaptations Mimicry An adaptation that happens when 1 organism looks like another species. Sometimes a harmless species looks like a dangerous one Sometimes 2 dangerous species look alike Predators can’t tell them apart, so they don’t go after either one!