A reading that discusses different aspects of evolutionary adaptations to climate change in animals. This reading by Renee Cho, Earth Institute, Columbia University, uses various examples to showcase how animals adapt to climate change and how a warming climate forces animals to ‘move, adapt or die’.
Students will learn about some of the morphological, biological, and physiological adaptations that occur in response to climate change. They will further be introduced to the concept of epigenetics, its role in phenotypic plasticity and how this differs from environmental adaptation.
Use this tool to help your students find answers to:
- What is evolutionary adaptation? How does it differ from phenotypic plasticity? Give an example.
- How is climate change influencing evolutionary adaptations in living organisms?
- What is epigenetics? Discuss its role in phenotypic plasticity?
- Discuss why it is important to maintain large species populations and biodiversity in the context of adaptations.
About the tool
Tool Name | What Helps Animals Adapt (or Not) to Climate Change? |
Discipline | Biological Sciences, Environmental Sciences |
Topic(s) in Discipline | Evolution, Evolutionary Adaptations, Natural SelectionPhenotypic Variations, Genetic Variations Gene Frequency, Phenotypic Plasticity Morphological or Physiological Traits, Epigenetic Factors |
Climate Topic | Climate and the Biosphere |
Type of tool | Reading |
Grade Level | High School, Undergraduate |
Location | Global |
Language | English |
Translation | |
Developed by | Renee Cho |
Hosted at | Earth Institute, Columbia University |
Link | Link |
Access | Online |
Computer Skills | Basic |