10 Questions
What is defined as traits that help organisms survive and reproduce in their current environment?
Adaptations
In the context of genetic change and natural selection, what is passed from one mole to its offspring?
Segmented nose structure
Which type of DNA is most likely to carry the genetic change that resulted in the segmented nose of the star-nosed mole?
DNA of reproductive cells
Why were the offspring with the segmented nose structure able to locate prey better?
As a result of genetic change
What term describes genetic changes resulting from mutation and sexual reproduction?
Genetic variation
Which of the following is NOT considered an adaptation?
A genetic mutation
How did the segmented nose structure become more common in the star-nosed mole population over many generations?
As a result of natural selection
Which factor determines whether a trait is considered an adaptation?
'Help organisms survive and reproduce' criterion
'Traits that help organisms survive and reproduce in their current environment' refer to:
'Adaptations'
'Star-nosed moles mostly eat earthworms and aquatic insects' illustrates their _____________.
'Ecological niche'
Study Notes
Adaptations and Evolution
- The star-nosed mole's unique nose structure allows it to locate prey more effectively, and its specialized nervous system enables rapid processing of environmental information.
- The mole's constant touch with its environment, up to 15 times per second, helps it detect and capture small prey quickly.
- The star-nosed mole's adaptations are the result of evolution through natural selection, which requires genetic variation to act on a trait.
Identifying Adaptations
- The barrel cactus's round stem covered with spines is an adaptation that helps it survive in hot, dry deserts.
- The scorpion's tough exoskeleton and poison in its curled tail are adaptations that help it thrive in the desert environment.
- The mountain goat's adaptations enable it to thrive in its current environment.
Genetic Variation and Adaptations
- Genetic changes, such as mutations, can result in advantageous traits, like the bee-eater's shorter or longer beaks.
- The bee-eater's adaptations, such as its beak shape, are connected to its environment, and the environment influences which traits are adaptive.
Genes, Traits, and Proteins
- Genes in DNA code for proteins that determine an organism's traits.
- The sequence of DNA base triplets determines the amino acid sequence, which in turn affects protein folding patterns and ultimately protein shape and function.
- Mutations to genes can affect traits in organisms by altering the sequence of DNA base triplets, leading to changes in protein shape and function.
Explore the unique adaptations of the star-nosed mole that allow it to effectively locate and capture prey. Learn about its specialized nervous system and behavior that aid in rapid information processing and food detection.
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