Explore

08. Adaptation

Answer in one line

Prepared by: learnloophq@gmail.com

Last edited 25 days ago by Learn LoopHQ.

Chapter: 08. Adaptation

⁠

Answer in one line

What is a habitat?

A habitat is the specific place where an organism, whether a plant or an animal, naturally lives and thrives.

Name two reasons why organisms need a habitat.

Organisms need a habitat because it provides essential resources like food, air, water, and shelter, and a safe place to protect their eggs and young ones.

What are the two main components of a habitat?

The two main components of a habitat are abiotic (physical features like air, water, and soil) and biotic (living organisms like plants, animals, and microbes).

List three types of broad habitats.

The three broad types of habitats are aquatic, terrestrial, and aerial.

What are hydrophytes?

Hydrophytes are plants that are specifically adapted to live in water or aquatic environments.

Give an example of a terrestrial habitat based on topography.

An example of a terrestrial habitat based on topography is a desert habitat, characterized by its dry and hot conditions.

What is adaptation in the context of living organisms?

Adaptation is the process through which an organism changes or adjusts its features to become better suited for survival and reproduction in its specific environment.

According to Darwin, what two concepts explain survival in nature?

According to Darwin, the two concepts explaining survival in nature are “Struggle for existence” and “Survival of the fittest.”

Name one specific feature of water hyacinth that helps it float.

Water hyacinth has a bulbous petiole and thick, spongy leaf-blade, along with poorly developed, free-floating roots, which all contribute to its buoyancy and ability to float.

How do air-filled spaces help floating aquatic plants?

Air-filled spaces between their cells provide buoyancy, helping floating aquatic plants remain afloat on the water surface.

How are Vallisneria leaves adapted to its submerged environment?

Vallisneria leaves are long and ribbon-like, allowing them to offer the least resistance to flowing water and sway with the current while completely submerged.

What is the primary method of gas exchange for submerged aquatic plants?

For submerged aquatic plants, gas exchange for breathing and photosynthesis occurs directly through the surface of their plant body, as they lack stomata.

How do the stomata of fixed aquatic plants differ from land plants?

In fixed aquatic plants, stomata are present only on the upper surface of their leaves, unlike land plants which typically have stomata on both surfaces or predominantly on the lower surface.

Describe the body shape of a fish that aids in swimming.

A fish has a streamlined body shape, which is spindle-shaped or boat-shaped and tapers at both ends, to minimize resistance while moving through water.

What is the role of pectoral fins in fish?

Pectoral fins in fish act as balancers, helping the fish maintain stability and balance in the water.

What is the function of the lateral-line system in fish?

The lateral-line system in fish contains sense organs that detect changes in water currents and pressure, aiding them in navigation and locating prey or predators.

How do desert plants obtain water from deeper soil layers?

Desert plants obtain water from deeper soil layers by having long root systems that extend far down into the ground.

Why are the leaves of desert plants often reduced to spines?

The leaves of desert plants are often reduced to spines to prevent excessive water loss through evaporation and to protect the plant from herbivores.

List two characteristics of Kikar (babool) tree that show desert adaptations.

The Kikar tree has reddish-brown or blackish rough bark to prevent water evaporation and bears long, strong thorns on its branches.

Why is a camel called the “ship of the desert”?

A camel is called the “ship of the desert” due to its exceptional adaptations, such as padded feet, a hump for fat storage, and water storage capabilities, enabling it to survive comfortably in arid desert conditions.

How do the nostrils of a camel protect it during a duststorm?

The nostrils of a camel have flaps that can close, protecting them from dust and sand during a duststorm.

What unique feature do mountain plants have instead of flowers?

Instead of flowers, mountain plants typically bear cones.

Why are most mountain plants evergreen?

Most mountain plants are evergreen to maximize photosynthesis whenever there is sufficient light, even during cold periods, which is crucial for survival in harsh mountain climates.

Describe how the feet of a mountain goat are adapted for climbing steep, rocky slopes.

The feet of a mountain goat have cloven or cleft hoofs divided into two toes, along with small pad-like structures on their tips, which provide grip and prevent slipping on steep, rocky slopes.

How do mountain animals protect themselves from extreme cold?

Mountain animals protect themselves from extreme cold by having thick and fluffy fur covering their entire body, including their feet and toes, providing insulation.

What is the role of pneumatic bones in birds?

Pneumatic bones in birds are hollow and filled with air cavities, which significantly reduce the bird’s body weight, making flight easier and more energy-efficient.

How does a bird’s beak aid in its aerial adaptation?

A bird’s beak is a toothless, horny modification of its jaws, which reduces overall body weight crucial for flight and also serves as a substitute for hands for picking up things.

How are seeds of plants like Maple and Drumstick adapted for dispersal by air?

Seeds of Maple and Drumstick have wings that act like parachutes, allowing them to float in the air for long distances and be carried away by wind for dispersal.

Want to print your doc?
This is not the way.

Try clicking the ⋯ next to your doc name or using a keyboard shortcut (

CtrlP

) instead.