Three Size Lessons: Adaptations in Organisms

Learning Objectives

Describe how organisms are adapted to their environments (structural, behavioral, functional adaptations).
Understand the meaning of 'extremophile'.

No specific examples of adaptations are required for the exam.
Be prepared to analyze and suggest how any given organism is adapted to its environment.

Environment: Hot and dry desert conditions.
Structural Adaptations:
- Hump on back: Stores fat, allowing heat loss from other body parts and reducing water loss from sweating.
- Thick coat: Insulates from the Sun's heat, reducing water loss.
- Leathery mouth: Enables consumption of desert plants with thorns.
- Long eyelashes & closable nostrils: Keep out dust.
- Wide feet: Prevent sinking into the sand.
Functional Adaptations:
- Concentrated urine & dry feces: Reduce water loss.
- Tolerance to body temperature changes: Helps cope with desert heat.

Kangaroo Rats:
- Nocturnal lifestyle: Active at night to avoid daytime heat.
- Burrow living: Keeps cool and protected from predators.

Environment: Cold conditions.
Structural Adaptations:
- Thick fur: Provides insulation, reducing heat loss.
- Fur on soles: Reduces heat loss to ice and snow.
- Small ears: Reduces surface area and heat loss.
- Camouflage coat: Aids in hunting prey.

Environment: Dry desert conditions.
Structural Adaptations:
- Small or no leaves: Reduces water loss.
- Spines: Protect from animals.
- Extensive shallow roots: Capture water quickly after rainfall.
- Water storage in stem: Allows survival without rain for months.

Definition: Organisms adapted to live in extreme conditions.
Example:
- Deep-sea vents: Home to bacteria that withstand high temperatures and pressures.
- High salt concentrations: Also a condition where extremophiles can live.

Additional questions and exercises on adaptations can be found in the provided revision workbook.

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