Download Notebook #7 Adaptations GT

Adaptations
Notebook #7
April 19, 2016
8.E.6B.1 Following these notes you will be able to construct explanations for how biological adaptations
and genetic variations of traits in a population enhance the probability of survival in a particular
environment.
* populations in a particular environment that have adapted to living conditions in that specific area are
therefore better able to meet their survival needs and are more likely to survive and reproduce offspring
with those key survival traits
* similar populations have variations
* natural differences in traits
* organisms of a species differ from one another in many of their traits
* an adaptation
- is a trait or behavior that helps an organism survive and reproduce.
traits
- are genetic differences that occur in a species
species
-a group of living organisms consisting of similar individuals capable of
exchanging genes or interbreeding.
* There can be variations among species of similar populations.
* variations
- changes in the genes among members of the same species
- Variations can occur both randomly and as a result of a trait being more fit for an environment.
* organisms of a species differ from one another in many of their traits
* natural selection
-the process that explains why organisms better suited to a particular
environment are better able to survive and reproduce than organisms that are not; explains survival and
how species can change over time
*example: certain traits or adaptations involving color, camouflage, food gathering (beaks/claws), and
other physical traits, sensory abilities, or behaviors enhance the survival of a species
* The theory of evolution is used by scientists to explain the genetic variations seen among
different species.
* The theory of evolution is used to explain the gradual change in a species over time.
* Natural selection over a long period of time can lead to helpful variations accumulating while
unfavorable ones that do not help a population survive, disappear.
* Charles Darwin was an English naturalist and geologist who was the originator of the biological
theory of evolution.
* Studying the "Darwin Finches" is a prime example of natural selection based on physical traits
that help an animal with food gathering.