What does the term adaptation mean? how does adaptation explain the patterns of distribution of plant and animal species in the world? I need help.. Can someone give me the answer? Thanks.. :3
animals or organisms would adapt to an environment that best suits their needs. The world is going to be warmer and hotter due to human acts that it would cause a few species to be extinct every year.
When a mass extinction happens it would give new species a chance to succeed and grow and plants would dominate the world. As animals/species would overpopulate they would cause the CO2 levels in the air to increase and that it would increase in warming that would affect their environment and that some could be suited for hotter temperatures.
The term adaptation refers to the process by which living organisms adjust to their environment in order to increase their chances of survival and reproduction. Adaptation can occur through various mechanisms, including physical changes, behavioral changes, or genetic changes.
When it comes to the patterns of distribution of plant and animal species in the world, adaptation plays a crucial role. Through the process of adaptation, species are able to evolve traits that are suited to their specific environment, allowing them to survive and thrive in particular habitats. This leads to the formation of distinct communities and ecosystems around the globe.
To understand the patterns of distribution, you can examine the concept of "ecological niche". An ecological niche refers to the specific role and position a species holds within its environment, including its interactions with other species and its use of resources. Different species may occupy distinct niches, which is a result of their unique adaptations.
For example, consider the cactus plants in arid environments. These plants have adapted to thrive in dry conditions by evolving specialized water storage structures, such as thick stems and spines to reduce water loss. This adaptation enables cacti to survive in areas where other plants struggle due to lack of water.
Similarly, animals like polar bears are adapted to survive in cold Arctic environments. They have thick fur and a layer of blubber to provide insulation and conserve body heat. This adaptation allows them to thrive in freezing temperatures, whereas other animals would struggle to survive.
Overall, the patterns of distribution of plant and animal species in the world can be explained by the adaptations they have developed to meet the specific challenges and opportunities presented by their respective habitats.