Adaptation (Structure and Function)
Adaptation in a population of living things happens as a result of an adaptive trait. This is any inheritable trait that increases its survival rate so that it can live longer, reproduce longer, and have more offspring (that also have that trait). Adaptive traits can improve an animal’s ability to find food, make a safer home, escape predators, survive cold or heat or lack of water.
The walkingstick has some effective adaptive traits. Their twig-like body, long, thin legs and long antennae help them blend in with the twigs and branches where they feed. Their brownish-green color also acts as camouflage and makes it hard to see them when they are feeding on leaves in the trees. These physical adaptations help them survive in their forest habitat.
Activity
For Discussion and Critical Thinking:
The walkingstick insect has adaptive traits that help it to survive in its habitat.
1. Name two of the walkingstick’s physical adaptations and how they help it survive:
2. Name two other insects from your yard, local parks or wild areas (forests, prairies, wetlands, etc.) who use camouflage to hide from predators or prey.
3. Name two different habitats near your home and what you might wear to blend into them:
