18.0.    STRUCTURAL ADAPTATION

Structural adaptations are physical features of an organism that enhance its survival and reproduction in its environment.

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EXAMPLES OF STRUCTURAL ADAPTATION

• Beaks: Different bird species have beaks adapted to their feeding habits (e.g., long beaks for nectar feeding in hummingbirds).
• Body Shape: Streamlined bodies in fish reduce water resistance, aiding in swimming.
• Camouflage: The coloration and patterns of animals (e.g., stick insects resembling twigs) help them blend into their environment to avoid predators.
• Body Coverings: Fur, feathers, and scales provide insulation, protection, and moisture retention.

          18.1    BEHAVIOURAL ADAPTATION

Behavioural Adaptation Behavioural adaptations are actions or behaviours that organisms exhibit to survive in their environments.

EXAMPLES OF BEHAVIOURAL ADAPTATION

• Migration: Birds migrate to warmer climates during winter to find food and suitable breeding conditions.
• Hibernation: Some animals, like bears, enter a state of dormancy during cold months to conserve energy.
• Foraging Strategies: Different feeding behaviours, such as nocturnal hunting in owls, help avoid competition and predators.
• Aestivation is a state of dormancy or inactivity that some animals enter during hot or dry periods to conserve energy and water. It is similar to hibernation but occurs in response to high temperatures and arid conditions.glung fish ,crocodiles, e.t.c,.

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          18 2.    ADAPTIVE COLOR

Adaptive colour refers to the coloration of an organism that enhances its survival by providing camouflage, warning signals, or attracting mates.

EXAMPLES OF ADAPTIVE COLOUR

• Camouflage: Animals like chameleons change colour to blend into their surroundings, making it harder for predators to spot them.
• Warning Coloration: Bright colours in poisonous animals (e.g., poison dart frogs) signal to predators that they are toxic and should be avoided.
• Mimicry: Some harmless species mimic the coloration of harmful species (e.g., viceroy butterflies resembling monarch butterflies) to deter predators.
• Sexual Selection: Bright colours in male birds attract females during mating displays (e.g., peacocks).
• Countershading: It is a form of camouflage where an animal’s coloration is darker on the upper side and lighter on the underside. This gradient helps to reduce the visibility of the animal in its environment.it is common in fishes.

          18.3.    REPRODUCTIVE BEHAVIOURS

Reproductive Behaviours are the actions and strategies that organisms use to attract mates, reproduce, and ensure the survival of their offspring.

TYPES OF REPRODUCTIVE BEHAVIOURS

• Courtship Displays: Many animals engage in elaborate courtship rituals to attract mates. These can include visual displays, vocalisations, and dances,e.gMale peacocks display their colourful feathers to attract females.
• Territoriality: Some species establish and defend territories to secure resources and attract mates,e.g Male songbirds often sing to establish their territory and attract females.
• Nesting: The construction of nests or shelters is a critical behaviour for many species to protect their eggs and young,e.g Birds build nests to provide a safe environment for their chicks.
• Parental Care: Many species exhibit behaviours to care for and protect their offspring after birth or hatching.