Video: Evolutionary Biology: Where Do We Go Now?

A video micro-lecture that describes different ways in which climate change affects behaviour, morphology, and physiology of organisms. This video lecture by Dr. George Gilchrist, Professor of Biology at the College of William and Mary, on evolutionary adaptation highlights the difference between environmental adaptation and phenotypic plasticity, including the importance of acclimation for survival.

Students will learn about evolutionary adaptation, difference between adaptation and acclimation and how climate change may affect the distribution of animals in the tropical and temperate zones. Students will further learn why tropical organisms are at a greater potential risk of extinction due to climate change.  

Use this tool to help your students find answers to: 

  1. What is evolutionary adaptation?
  2. What is the difference between adaptation and acclimation? Illustrate with examples.
  3. How does climate change affect the distribution of tropical populations?

About the Tool

Tool Name Coping with Climate Change – Evolution in the News
Discipline Biological Sciences
Topic(s) in Discipline Phenotypic Plasticity, Adaptation,Acclimation, Abiotic Factors,Genetic Variation, Range Shift
Climate Topic Climate and the Biosphere
Type of Tool Video lecture
Grade Level High School, Undergraduate
Location Global
Language English
Translation
Developed by Dr. George Gilchrist, College of William and Mary
Hosted at NESCentMedia Channel on YouTube
Link Video Link
Access Online
Computer Skills Basic

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