Chapter 8 - Adaptations Flashcards
What is an adaptation?
A physical or behavioural characteristic to help survive in an environment
Adaptations of animals in cold climates?
- larger body
- shorter limbs
- long hair/ fur
- thick fat
- huddles (behavioural)
- small surface area and large volume
Adaptations of animals in hot climates?
- increased surface area
- nocturnal behaviour
- reduced water loss
- reduced sweat
- reduced surface body temperature
How have camels adapted?
- Large flat feet to spread surface area on sand
- Thick fur on top of body (shade) thin everywhere else (easy heat loss)
- Large surface are to volume ratio (max. heat loss)
- Ability to go for long time without water
- Tolerate body temperatures up to 42^C
How have cacti adapted?
- Stems that can store water
- large root systems (collect more water)
- Thick spikes
- minimise surface area (reduce water loss)
- protection
What is an extreme environment?
A place which presents a challenge to survive e.g. extreme temps, lack of water, remoteness
What is an extremophile?
An organism which survives in extreme environments e.g. under high pressure & temperature
What do animals compete for?
- food
- territory
- space
- reproduce/mate
- water
What do plants compete for?
- sunlight
- water
- space
Define intraspecific?
Within members of same species
Define interspecific?
Between members of different species
Examples of species of organisms which migrate
- ringed plover
- humpback whale
- flamingo
Why do organisms migrate?
To go to warmer habitats or to get more food more easily. May not have adapted to deal with climate or seasonal change so migrate to get away from what they’re not adapted to
Define bioindicators? e.g.?
Living organisms which indicate pollution e.g. lichens (algae & fungi)
