Video/Microlecture: Evolutionary Adaptation in Response to Climate Change

A video microlecture that briefly describes evolutionary adaptations in animals due to climate change. This video by educator, Erin Eastwood, for TED-Ed introduces the topic of evolutionary adaptation and how animals are forced to evolve to changed environments caused by climate change. 

Students will learn how climate change has led to ecosystem disruptions and changes in the environment of many animal species. They will also be introduced to the difference between evolutionary adaptation and phenotypic plasticity and will understand the importance of heritable traits to the survival of a species. 

Use this tool to help your students find answers to: 

  1. What is evolutionary adaptation? Give suitable examples.
  2. How is adaptation different from phenotypic plasticity, in response to environmental change? 

About the tool

Tool NameCan wildlife adapt to climate change? – Erin Eastwood
DisciplineBiological Sciences, Environmental Sciences
Topic(s) in DisciplineEvolution, Adaptation, Evolutionary Adaptations, Natural Selection, Phenotypic Plasticity, Phenotypic Variations, Genetic Variations, Morphological Traits
Climate Topic Climate and the Biosphere
Type of tool Video/Micro lecture (5 mins)
Grade LevelHigh School
LocationGlobal
LanguageEnglish 
Translation
Developed byErin Eastwood for TED-Ed
Hosted atYouTube, Ted-Ed
Linkhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCKRjP_DMII
AccessOnline
Computer SkillsBasic
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