4.4.5 Environmental Adaption

Key Concept: Niche

• A niche is an organism's role within the environment, including how it interacts with other organisms and its physical surroundings.
• Species sharing the same niche compete, and better-adapted species are more likely to survive, reproduce, and pass on advantageous traits.

Types of Adaptations

1. Anatomical Adaptations

• Definition: Physical features of an organism that improve its survival.
• Examples:
• Length of the Loop of Henlé in desert mammals:
• Longer loops allow for more water reabsorption, leading to highly concentrated urine and reduced water loss.
• Thick fur in polar animals for insulation against cold temperatures.

2. Behavioural Adaptations

• Definition: Changes in behaviour that enhance survival and reproduction.
• Examples:
• Mating calls to attract mates.
• Nocturnal activity in desert animals to avoid the heat of the day.

3. Physiological Adaptations

• Definition: Internal processes or mechanisms that improve survival.
• Examples:
• Regulation of blood flow to the skin in humans to help maintain body temperature.
• Antifreeze proteins in fish living in sub-zero environments to prevent their blood from freezing.