Adaptations in Nature

Adaptations in nature show the diversity of ways that organisms have developed for their environment.

The grapevine has tendrils that are adapted to attach with great strength.  The students in class noticed how strong the attachment is. In comparison the vine growing up the tree doesn't have the strength to stay attached.  The tendrils on the vine attach to the outside of the bark and the tendrils of the grapevine wrap around. It was interesting to look closely how the tendrils attach to the different surfaces.

The grasshopper's coloration helps it blend in . The brown coloring doesn't help with this background but it did help the insect survive the early part of spring before the grass started greening up.  Another adaptation the grasshopper has is how it can cling on almost any surface. This allows it to escape predators that can't climb some of the surfaces.

The bee's coloration is a warning color and a blending color.  This picture was taken in the school yard.  The coloration is known to the students so they can stay away.  Another adaptation the bee has is the buzzing sound.  There was an episode of Scientific American Frontiers that had a segment on the buzzing and dancing of bees.  The bees give directions to a food source by the different dances.  It was a few years ago but I think you can find it on the PBS website.