Chapter 15, Problem 9A

Summary Introduction

To recognize:

The evolutionary effect on a species of an increase in temperatures over time.

Introduction: Darwin’s theory of natural selection remains a central theme in evolution. Organisms adapt to their environment and variations give rise to adaptations within species. Survival of the fittest is the mantra. Those that can sustain the new conditions and adapt themselves will survive. Others will perish.

Answer to Problem 9A

Increase in temperature over time may cause a species to:

1. Adapt to new conditions.
2. Migrate to new places.
3. Become extinct.

Explanation of Solution

According to global climate change, the temperature of the earth is gradually increasing and would continue to rise in the future as well. A species is adapted to survive at a particular temperature. Any deviation from the optimum conditions would cause a problem for the species. To survive in the new conditions, the species would have to undergo certain evolutionary changes. There are three options for the species:

1. Only those species which have variations to survive in the increased temperature conditions would thrive. Adaptation via natural selection could save the species from becoming extinct. So the first response would be to adapt to new conditions.
2. If the species fail to adapt to new conditions or do not have variations to overcome the unfavorable conditions, it may migrate to a new place that has a low temperature. Migration to a new place would further require adjustment and adaptation to the new environment. There might be increased competition for food due to the migration of more and more species.
3. If the species fail to adapt and migrate, then they might become extinct. High temperatures may force the species to die as they cannot sustain at such temperatures. Many species are on the verge of becoming extinct due to global climate change.