Adaptations

Adaptation A trait that helps an organism survive

Charles Darwin Explored the world in the 1800’s, observing different organisms Developed the idea of natural selection, best adapted animals will survive

Galapagos Organisms Finches-different beaks Iguanas-large claws to eat seaweed Animals and plants different from mainland relatives after many generations

Evolution Gradual change in a species over time Scientific theory- well-tested idea that explains observations

Causes of Natural Selection Overproduction- even though insects lay million of eggs, why haven’t they taken over? Variations-differences based on genes Competition- food and resources are limited

Causes of Natural Selection Selection- pass on best genes, like strongest animal or best camouflaged Environmental Change- moth, monkey flowers in copper soil, warming environment Genes- mutations can cause changes

Birds’ Bones Birds have hollow bones so they can fly easier. Their bones are less dense than ours.

Fish Fins Fish have fins to help them move in their watery environment