Evolution- (1) Adaption and Variation Flashcards
Adaptation and Variation
What is an adaptation?
A structure, behaviour or physiological process that help an organism survive + reproduce.
Examples of structural adaptations
A rabbits brown/ white fur
Stick bugs colour and structure
What is a physiological adaptation?
Internal body process,
Examples of physiological adaptations
Hibernation
What is mimicry?
Harmless species that resemble a harmful species or vise versa.
What is a variation?
Differences between individuals of a species, introduced via sexual reproduction and mutations
Development of adaptations
Adaptations form from gradual accumulative changes that help organisms survive (variations)
What is the environmental impact on adaptations
Human activities can change environments, and a trait that may not be advantageous initially could become critical for survival.
Explain the findings of the flecked moths study.
In the late 1800s the industrial revolution began. The air pollution killed the lichens on trees surrounding Manchester and replaces lichens with black soot. As a result, flecked moths became more visible and black moths were well camouflaged. The black moth variation become advantageous and became an adaptation.
Do variations always become adaptations?
No! Variations only become adaptations if they provide a selective advantage.
Whats a selective advantage?
A characteristic or trait that increases and organisms chance of survival.
