NOTES: ADAPTATI

ONS

Adaptation A change in a species that

helps it to survive and reproduce in its environment (habitat)

Habitat - The immediate space where an animal or plant lives and has food, water and protection

Structural Adaptations

changes in physical features like body form and protective coloration that make an animal more suited to survive in its environment

Examples: Webbed feet & fins for

swimming sharp beak & teeth for tearing

flesh frog & alligator eyes on the top

of head for stalking prey in water

Camouflage - An adaptation in coloration or pattern that allows an organism to blend into its environment

Behavioral Adaptations

changes in behavior that helps organisms to survive

Ex: Hibernation, Migration, Mating behaviors, Hunting behaviors

Evolution A change in a species

over long periods of time Adaptations are the

result of evolution

How Adaptations Occur A gene mutates or changes by

accident If the mutation causes a change in

the animal that makes it better adapted to its environment, then the animal will be more likely to survive and pass on that characteristic