GCSE Biology: Adaptation
Adaptation are the features an animal has to enable it to survive in the conditions it lives in.
Polar Bear
- Round Shape for small surface area, looses less heat.
- Layer of fat called blubber insulates the bear.
- Small Ears reduce heat loss.
- White fur gives camoflage when hunting and protection for young.
- Big feet spread the weight of the bear and stop it sinking.
- Thick dense fur keeps it warm.
- Strong legs allow fast swimming and running.
Camel
- Fat is stored in the hump for harder times.
- Stores lots of water and can consume 100 litres in 10 minutes.
- Only a small amount of urine is produced.
- Camels are thin and have a large surface area helping them loose heat quickly.
- Long eyelashes stop sand blowing into its eyes.
- Sandy colour coat gives it good camoflage.
- Bald underneath so it can loose sweat and heat.
- Large feet and big toes so the camel does not sink into soft sand.
Cactus
- Spiny leaves cut down on surface area.
- Water is stored in the fleshy stem.
- A cuticle covering to stop water loss.
- Spreading root system to absorb any dew which may settle.