5.1 Adaptation

Habitat

  • Definition: The natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism.

Adaptations of Plants and Animals to Different Habitats

  • Organisms develop special features or behaviors to survive and thrive in their specific habitats.

Aquatic Habitat

Adaptations in Plants

  • Floating Plants (e.g., Water Hyacinth): Light/spongy bodies, air-filled cavities, poorly developed roots.
  • Submerged Plants (e.g., Hydrilla): Thin/flexible stems, narrow/dissected leaves, no stomata.
  • Fixed Plants (e.g., Water Lily): Roots fixed, long/hollow stems, large flat leaves with stomata on upper side.

Aquatic Habitat (Continued)

Adaptations in Fish

  • Streamlined Body: Reduces friction.
  • Fins: For balance, steering, propulsion.
  • Gills: For breathing underwater.
  • Scales: Protection, reduces friction.
  • Swim Bladder: Maintains buoyancy.

Desert Habitat

Adaptations in Cactus (Desert Plant)

  • Spines: Modified leaves to reduce water loss and protect.
  • Fleshy Stem: Stores water, performs photosynthesis.
  • Waxy Coating: Prevents water loss.
  • Deep Roots: Absorb water from large area.

Desert Habitat (Continued)

Adaptations in Camel (Desert Animal)

  • Hump: Stores fat (produces water/energy).
  • Long Legs: Keeps body away from hot sand.
  • Broad, Flat Feet: Prevents sinking in sand.
  • Long Eyelashes/Closable Nostrils: Protect from sandstorms.
  • Ability to Drink Large Amounts of Water: Can drink up to 100 liters.
  • Tolerates High Body Temperature: Reduces water loss through sweating.

Mountain Habitat

Adaptations in Trees (e.g., Pine, Fir)

  • Conical Shape: Snow slides off easily.
  • Needle-like Leaves: Reduce surface area, minimize water loss, prevent snow accumulation.
  • Thick, Waxy Coating: Protects against cold, reduces water loss.

Mountain Habitat (Continued)

Adaptations in Mountain Goat

  • Strong Hooves: Excellent grip on rocky slopes.
  • Thick Fur: Insulation against cold.
  • Agile and Sure-footed: Navigates treacherous terrain.

Air Habitat

Adaptations for Flight in Birds

  • Streamlined Body: Reduces air resistance.
  • Hollow Bones: Lightens body.
  • Wings: Modified forelimbs for lift and propulsion.
  • Strong Flight Muscles: Power wings.
  • Feathers: Insulation, aid in flight, shape body.

Air Habitat (Continued)

Aerial Plants (e.g., Orchids)

  • Adaptations: Develop aerial roots to absorb moisture from air or attach to surfaces for support.