Adaptations and Homeostasis Flashcards
What does adaptation mean?
An inherited characteristic that makes an organism better suited to its environment and therefore increases their chance of survival
Define physiological adaptations
Functioning features of the organisms internal physiology that help it to survive in its environment
Define structural adapations
Anatomical or physical features, such as shape and structure, of the organism that help it to survive in its environment
Define behavioural adaptations
Behaviours undertaken by an organism that help it to survive in its environment
An example of a physiological adaptation
Heart rate
An example of a behavioural adaptation
Mating
An example of a structural adaptation
Large ears
What is a keystone species?
An organism that helps hold the system together. They have a disproportionately large influence on the environment
What is symbiosis?
The interaction between two organisms in an ecosystem, to the benefit of one or both.
What is parasitism?
A relationship between 2 organisms in which one lives on or in another and feeds on it, typically without killing it. The host suffers negative effects while the parasite benefits.
What is mutualism?
Both organisms in the relationship gain some benefit.
What is commensalism?
One member benefits and the other neither suffers harm nor gains any benefit.
What is amensalism?
One member is inhibited or destroyed while the other gains no benefit.
