Adaptations

= An inherited trait that increases an organism’s

ability to survive and reproduce

Can be:

• Structural - – a physical trait that aids an organism in

competing for resources (eg. stronger or faster) or evading predators

• Behavioral– a behavior that increases an organisms ability to

survive or find a mate

STRUCTURAL ADAPTATION EXAMPLES

• Plants that use pollinators often use the ‘bullseye’ pattern to attract bees, butterflies, etc.

• This pattern has

evolved many times

• Example: black-

eyed Susan

CACTUS PLANTS

• Cactus plants in the desert have leaves specially designed to:– Store water– Tolerate long periods of

dehydration without harm to tissues

Desert Animals

• Structural Modifications to dissipate heat– long appendages

(legs, ears, etc.), or small "bodies" (e.g., whole body, leaves, etc.) that radiate heat.

California Kingsnake

Adaptations to consume its favorite food – Rattlesnakes!

• Hinged jaw – consume food larger than its own head

• Tolerance to rattlesnake venom

Dendrobates – or poison dart frogs

• Some species have skin that is extremely poisonous – even to the touch

• Bright markings warn predators they are poisonous

Lady Slippers Orchids

• Petal has evolved into pouch

• Aroma of orchids makes flies act intoxicated

• Have so much fun – move to second pouch = pollination!

BEHAVIORAL ADAPTATIONS

• EXAMPLES

Blue-footed Boobies

• Blue feet used in their elaborate mating ritual

• Male struts around female, raising one foot at time, whistling, bringing sticks as ‘gifts’

Prairie Dogs

• Example of a social animal• Build huge tunnel ‘town’ to

evade heat & escape predators

• Adaptation to make a range of vocalizations– Bark = warning– Rasp = impending attack– Scream = pain