Variation within Population and Species
Groundhogs have powerful legs and feet with sharp claws that they use for digging burrows. They prefer to live along the edges of forests near open fields where they can find the dandelion greens, clover, and grasses they like to eat. They also grow on trees and roots. The gnawing wears down their teeth, which grow about 15 mm per week. Groundhogs hibernate deep in their burrows from November to February. During February, some groundhogs leave their burrows for short times. However, they return for another sleeping period until early March, when they mate. Use this information to answer the following questions:
Explain variation within a population of groundhogs by comparing the external features of the groundhogs that would enhance their survival.
Explain variation with a population of groundhogs by comparing how parts of their body function to help keep them alive. (Ex: sharper claws, etc)
Explain variation within a population of groundhogs by comparing the behaviors of the groundhogs that would enhance their survival. (behaviors)
North American bison are large grazing animals. They once lived on the prairies but now live mostly in large parks and preserves. Bison have a four-part stomach with single-celled organisms that digest cellulose living in one part. This adaptation allows bison to obtain nutrients from the grasses they eat. Bison move in small bands, which join together to form a large herd for fall and spring migrations. The herds migrate from open grassland to valleys and wooded areas where they can shelter from winter storms. There they use their keen sense of smell to locate grass under the snow. Bison have 2 winter coats. A thick layer of fur traps warm air next to the skin. A thick outer coat sheds water and protects a bison from the wind. Use this information to answer the following questions:
Explain the variation within a population of bison by comparing the external features of the bison that would enhance their survival.
Explain the variation within a population of bison by comparing the behaviors of the bison that would enhance their survival.
Suppose a population of bison migrates to an area where the grasses are high in silicon. Silicon can quickly wear down the teeth of grazing animals and can be difficult to digest. Explain variation within a population of bison by comparing the functioning parts of their body that would enhance their survival.