Adaptations are inheritable characteristics that increase an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in an environment. Adaptations can help an organism find food and water, protect itself, or manage in extreme environments. Adaptations develop gradually over long periods of time and through many generations of the species. Individuals with characteristics that are advantageous are usually the survivors who live on to reproduce and contribute offspring to future generations.
Physical adaptations are body structures that help an organism find and consume food and water, protect itself, cope with tough environments, and reproduce. Click on the plus sign on each image to read examples of physical adaptations.
Behavioral adaptations are actions an organism takes to survive. Click on the plus sign on each image to read examples of behavioral adaptations.
Directions: Watch Animal Adaptations to see adaptations of three different animals that live in three very different environments.