A Level Biology Practice Exam

Why are physiological adaptations important for organisms?

1. They alter an organism's genetic code

2. They help organisms fit better in their environment

3. They increase the growth rate of organisms

4. They are responsible for color diversity

The correct answer is: They help organisms fit better in their environment

Physiological adaptations are crucial because they enable organisms to survive and thrive in their specific environments. These adaptations may involve changes in how organisms metabolize nutrients, respond to temperature changes, or cope with various stresses like drought or high salinity. For example, certain plants have developed mechanisms to conserve water, which is vital for their survival in arid conditions. Such adaptations enhance the organism’s ability to obtain resources, reproduce efficiently, and thus maintain their populations over time. By fitting better into their environment, organisms can better compete for resources and avoid predation, leading to increased chances of survival and reproductive success. This linkage between physiology and environmental fit highlights the significance of adaptive traits in the process of natural selection and evolution. While other options may relate to various biological concepts, they do not specifically address the direct impact of physiological adaptations on an organism's functionality and survival in a particular habitat.