Competition and adaptation

• In the wild, all organisms must compete for resources. This is known as competition. 

• Resources can include food, water, shelter, and mates. Animals that are better adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce.

Competition in animals

Animals compete for a variety of resources. Some common examples include:

• Food: Different species may compete for the same prey or plants.

• Water: In arid environments, water can be scarce, leading to competition among animals.

• Shelter: Animals may compete for burrows, dens, or other suitable habitats.

• Mates: Males of many species compete with each other to attract females for reproduction.

Competition in plants

Plants also compete for resources, particularly in crowded environments. Some examples include:

• Light: Plants compete for sunlight, which is essential for photosynthesis.

• Water: Plants in arid environments must compete for water, which is often scarce.

• Space: Plants compete for space to grow and spread their roots.

• Nutrients: Plants absorb nutrients from the soil, and they may compete with other plants for these essential resources.

Adaptation

• Adaptations are characteristics that enable organisms to survive and thrive in their environment. 

• These adaptations can be physical, behavioral, or physiological.

• As environments change, organisms must adapt or face extinction. 

• By understanding the adaptations of different species, we can gain a better appreciation for the diversity of life on Earth.

Adaptations in animals

• Animals have developed a wide range of adaptations to help them survive in their habitats. Some examples include:

  • Camouflage: Many animals have coloration or patterns that help them blend in with their surroundings, making it difficult for predators to spot them.

  • Speed: Some animals, such as cheetahs, have evolved to be very fast runners, allowing them to catch prey.

  • Strength: Animals like gorillas and lions have developed strength and muscular bodies for defense and hunting.

  • Specialised senses: Many animals have adapted their senses to be particularly sensitive to certain stimuli, such as smell or hearing.

A lion shows many adaptations

Adaptations in plants

• Plants have also evolved adaptations to help them survive in various environments. Some examples include:

  • Waxy leaves: Many desert plants have a waxy coating on their leaves to help reduce water loss through evaporation.

  • Spines: Some plants, such as cacti, have spines instead of leaves to help reduce water loss and deter herbivores.

  • Deep roots: Plants in arid environments often have deep roots to reach underground water sources.

  • Succulent stems: Some plants store water in their stems to help them survive during dry periods.

A cactus shows many adaptations