Adaptation Flashcards
What is an Adaptation?
Adaptation is a feature that enhances survival and long-term reproductive success.
What can a well adapted organism do?
A well-adapted organism will be able to: find food/photosynthesis well, fine enough water, gather enough nutrients, defend from predators/diseases, survive physical environmental conditions, have enough energy to reproduce.
What can adaptations be?
Adaptations may be behavioral, physiological (biochemical) or anatomical.
What do Behavioral Adaptations do?
Behavior to help survive e.g. move away from predators.
What are Physiological and Biochemical Adaptations?
Ensures correct functioning of cell processes – correct enzyme.
What can Anatomical Adaptations do?
Structural adaptations to help survive (e.g. Flagella).
What are Xerophytic plants behavioral adaptations?
Close stomata to contain water, open stomata at night, curl/roll leaves to reduce water loss, open stomata so plants wilt.
What are Xerophytic plants Physiological adaptations?
Accordion-fold structure, and absorbs water from the ground when it becomes available.
What are Xerophytic plants Anatomical adaptations?
Shallow widespread roots, long roots to reach water underground, fleshy stem/leaves for water storage, reduced water (surface area) loss, waxy cuticle to minimise water-loss.
