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Chapter 4: Problem 11

What factors determine whether a species will adapt to a change or whether the change will render it extinct?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Overall, a variety of factors determine whether a species adapts or becomes extinct due to a change, including environmental conditions, physical characteristics, reproductive capabilities, genetic variation, and the ability to change locations in response to environmental changes.

Step by step solution

01

- Identify Environmental Factors

Breathing becomes more challenging if the environment changes. Changes in climate, food supply, predators, diseases or invasive species all play a part.
02

- Physical Attributes

Species with unique physical attributes are better adapted to certain environments. Such as, animals with thick fur in cold environments or cacti that retain water in arid regions. A drastic change in the environment makes survival difficult.
03

- Reproductive Factors

Reproduction plays a key role in survival. Species that reproduce quickly and in large numbers often survive changes better, they can adapt faster to the new conditions.
04

- Genetic Variation

Species with a greater genetic variation are generally more adaptable. A diverse gene pool offers a better chance for the species to have traits that will enable survival under new conditions.
05

- Ability to Move

The species that can change their location in response to environmental change, e.g., migratory birds, have a better survival chance.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Describe the predator-prey relationship between the moose and wolves of Isle Royale. What other factors influence these two populations?

Describe several types of adaptations a species might have that would allow it to survive in a dry environment, escape predation, or lower competition with another species.

Explain the difference between \(r\) - and \(K\)-strategists. Where do these terms come from, and what are the characteristics of each broad category?

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