Evolution & Adaptation

1. Evolution & Adaptation Science 7R Mr. Rockensies

2. What is evolution? The gradual change in the body of an organism due to different traits passed from the parents to the offspring.

3. How does it occur? Natural Selection – “survival of the fittest” Organisms with “good traits” will survive and pass on their genes. Organisms with “bad traits” will not survive and the “bad” genes will not be passed on . Good traits could include camouflage, speed, claws, wings, gills Bad traits could include albinism, loss of body part

4. What is an Adaptation? a trait which helps an organism to survive better in its environment

5. How do organisms change? MUTATION – a change in a gene which can cause a change in a trait. Mutations are not always bad. Ex: bacteria mutate and resist medicines extra long claws/teeth help cats catch food What happens if an organism can’t adapt? It will become extinct

6. What does extinct mean? An organism that no longer exists in the world. There is a lot of evidence of extinct organisms on the planet – How do we know? Fossils are remains of animals/plants left behind in rock layers. Organisms become extinct when they cannot adapt to changes in the environment or were overhunted by people or lost their habitat.

7. How do we prevent extinction? Several conservation efforts exist to protect those animals and plants that are considered endangered. Endangered organisms are those that may become extinct. They have low population numbers.

8. Shaping Evolution Two ways we try to shape the evolution of different species is by using selective breeding and genetic engineering. Humans can select traits to change in other organisms for their own benefit, or “fix” our genes to avoid disease. Ex: dog breeds, insect repellant crops.