Explain how the cheetahs' variation in traits has given it a survival advantage above other animals.

Plants and animals have variations in their physical and behavioral traits. How do these variations provide advantages to their survival?

Are all animals in a group the same? Why or why not?

The saguaro cactus has adapted in many ways to the harsh environment it lives in. The roots of a juvenile cactus reach as far as two meters and grow even more extensive as the cactus ages. Widespread roots systems allow the caucus to gather as much moisture as possible from the desert soil. This trait variation enables the cactus to collect water when rainfall is so rare. The saguaro has a large barrel-shaped stem that allows it to store water. It has no leaves, so it does not lose water to transpiration. One trait that varies from other plants is the long thorns on the stem of the cactus. These thorns keep animals away, so they don't drink the water inside.

Which variation(s) of traits give the saguaro cactus a survival advantage?

Which answer choice best explains what the term variation means? Example: The moth's variation in color pattern helps it blend in with the bark.

The saguaro cactus has adapted in many ways to the harsh environment it lives in. The roots of a juvenile cactus reach as far as two meters and grow even more extensive as the cactus ages. Widespread roots systems allow the caucus to gather as much moisture as possible from the desert soil. This trait variation enables the cactus to collect water when rainfall is so rare. The saguaro has a large barrel-shaped stem that allows it to store water. It has no leaves, so it does not lose water to transpiration. One trait that varies from other plants is the long thorns on the stem of the cactus. These thorns keep animals away, so they don't drink the water inside.

How do these trait variations give the cactus an advantage in the desert?

Skunks have black, brown, or grey fur with a bright white stripe down the center of their backs. This stripe serves as a warning to anything that might try to attack it. When frightened or threatened, a skunk will spray a stinky, musky liquid at its predator. The skunk will give a warning that it's about to spray by arching its back, raising its tail high in the air, turning its back toward the enemy, and stomping its front feet. The smell stays on the predator and can even get into their eyes. The spray can reach a predator up to 15 feet away!

How does this trait variation give the skunk a better chance at survival?

Which plant does NOT have a trait variation that would give it a survival advantage?

Which animal is demonstrating a trait that leads to a survival advantage?

Skunks have black, brown, or grey fur with a bright white stripe down the center of their backs. This stripe serves as a warning to anything that might try to attack it. When frightened or threatened, a skunk will spray a stinky, musky liquid at its predator. The skunk will give a warning that it's about to spray by arching its back, raising its tail high in the air, turning its back toward the enemy, and stomping its front feet. The smell stays on the predator and can even get into their eyes. The spray can reach a predator up to 15 feet away!

Skunks have unique trait variations that will allow it to survive in ways other animals cannot. A skunks fur pattern, fur color, and spray will enable it to catch more prey than other animals.