Adaptation Flashcards
What is a population?
The total number of organisms of the same species that live in one specific geographical area
What is a community?
A group of two or more populations that live in one specific geographical area
What is an ecosystem?
The interaction of a community of living organisms with the non-living parts of their environment
What is a stable community?
One where all the species and environmental factors are in balance so all the population sizes remain fairly constant
What is competition?
Organisms within a community compete for resources, such as food, mates, territory, light, space, water and mineral ions.
What is interspecific competition?
Between different species
What is intraspecific competition?
Between organisms of the same species
What are abiotic factors?
Non-living factors in the ecosystem that can affect a community
Carbon dioxide levels
Light intensity
Moisture levels
Oxygen levels
Soil pH and mineral content
Temperature
Wind intensity and direction
What are biotic factors?
Living factors that can affect a community within an ecosystem
Food availability
Preadators
Pathogens
Competition
What are adaptations?
Features that enable organisms to survive in the conditions in which they live
This may allow it to outcompete others, giving them an evolutionary advantage
What are structural adaptations?
Physical features that allow an organism to successfully compete
Sharp teeth
Colouring for camouflage
Surface area to volume ratio
What are behavioural adaptations?
Behaviour of an organism changes to give it an advantage
Nests to attract a mate
Courtship dances
Tools
Working together
What are functional adaptations?
Adaptations related to a process that allows an organism to survive
Photosynthesis
Poison or venom
Changes in reproduction timings
What are adaptations of a polar bear?
White fur
Thick fur
Small ears (reduces heat loss)
Large surface area of feet
What are adaptations of a camel?
Large surface area feet
Hump
Long eyelashes
Tough mouth and tongue
