Examples (Plants)

Cactus

• Adaptations:

  • Thick stem stores water

  • Spines protect from animals

  • Leaves reduced to spines (less water loss)

Palm Tree

• Adaptations:

  • Long roots to reach water

  • Flexible trunk to survive strong wind

Water Lily

• Adaptations:

  • Large floating leaves

  • Stomata (pores) on top of leaves

  • Helps absorb sunlight

Desert Grass

• Adaptations:

  • Long roots

  • Grows only after rain

  • Saves water

Examples (Animals)

Arctic Fox

• Thick white fur for cold and camouflage

• Small ears to reduce heat loss

Porcupine

• Sharp quills for protection

  Bat

• Uses echolocation to find food at night

• Lives in dark caves

Swan

• Webbed feet for swimming

• Long neck for reaching underwater plants

Key Words

WordMeaningEcholocationUsing sound to find objects (like bats)DormancyState of rest to survive extreme weatherNocturnalActive during the nightDiurnalActive during the dayThermoregulationMaintaining body temperatureEndothermAnimals that make their own heatEctothermAnimals that depend on the environment for heatWater conservationSaving water in the bodyDesiccationDrying out (water loss)NicheRole of an organism in its habitat