Question

The shape of fish is streamlined over time to move faster in water. Which kind of adaptation is this?

Answer 1

The shape of fish becoming streamlined over time to move faster in water is an example of an adaptation known as "morphological adaptation." Morphological adaptations are physical or structural changes in an organism's body form that enhance its ability to survive and thrive in a particular environment.

In the case of fish, their streamlined body shape, characterized by a tapered head, streamlined body, and a tail fin (caudal fin) designed for propulsion, is an adaptation for efficient swimming through water. This streamlined shape minimizes drag and turbulence, allowing fish to move swiftly and effectively through their aquatic environment. It reduces resistance against the water, enabling fish to swim with less energy expenditure and greater speed.

The evolution of the streamlined body shape in fish is a result of natural selection acting on variations within fish populations. Over time, individuals with traits that confer a selective advantage, such as improved swimming efficiency, are more likely to survive, reproduce, and pass on their genes to the next generation. Gradually, these advantageous traits become more prevalent within the population, leading to the development of a streamlined body shape as a widespread adaptation for efficient swimming.

Answer 2

This is an example of an evolutionary adaptation known as morphological adaptation. Morphological adaptation is when an organism changes its shape or structure over time in order to be better suited to its environment. In this case, the fish's streamlined shape helps it to move faster in the water.

Answer 3

This is an example of a physical adaptation. The fish's body shape has changed to better suit its environment and lifestyle. Specifically, its streamlined shape is an adaptation for faster and more efficient swimming in the water.

Answer 4

This is an example of a structural adaptation, where the physical characteristics or structures of an organism change over time to better suit its environment and improve its survival. In this case, the shape of the fish has evolved through natural selection to allow for more efficient and faster movement through water.