Structures and Adaptation of Animals and Plants

Vocabulary flashcards covering specialized body structures, movements, and adaptations of terrestrial and aquatic animals and plants based on Science 4 lecture notes.

Wings

Body structures that help animals move through the air to fly, find food, and escape from danger.

Beaks

Structures on birds used to catch food, tear meat, crack seeds, or drink nectar depending on their diet.

Fins

Structures that help fish and other aquatic animals swim, move forward, turn, and keep balance in water.

Webbed Feet

Feet with skin between the toes that help animals like ducks, frogs, and geese push against water and swim easily.

Claws

Sharp nails found on many animals that help them catch prey, climb, dig, and protect themselves.

Shell

A hard outer covering that protects an animal's soft body from enemies and injury.

Fur

A covering of hair on an animal's body that keeps the animal warm and protects its skin.

Slithering

A method of movement used by animals without legs who bend their bodies from side to side.

Animal Body Movements Chart

A summary table comparing animal habitats, representative animals, movements, and body structures used.

Terrestrial Plants

Plants that grow on land and have structures adapted to dry or moist environments, such as strong roots that hold the plant in soil.

Cactus Thick Stem

A specialized stem structure that stores water for long periods to help the cactus survive dry weather in hot deserts.

Cactus Spines

Specialized structures on cacti that reduce water loss and protect the plant from animals.

Needle-like Leaves

Leaves found on pine trees that reduce water loss and help the tree survive in cold mountain weather.

Coconut Tree Flexible Trunk

A trunk that bends during strong winds to prevent the coconut tree from breaking.

Fibrous Roots

Roots that hold coconut trees firmly in sandy soil and absorb water and minerals.

Aquatic Plants

Plants that grow in water and are adapted to ponds, rivers, and lakes with structures that help them float or obtain nutrients.

Broad Floating Leaves

Leaves that float on the surface of the water to receive plenty of sunlight for photosynthesis, such as in water lilies and lotus.

Spongy Stems

Stems filled with air found in water hyacinths that help the plant float on water.

Aerial Roots

Roots of mangrove trees that rise above muddy soil to take in oxygen and support the tree in soft mud.

Underwater Leaves

Leaves that are thin, narrow, or feathery, allowing water to flow through without damaging the plant, such as in Hydrilla.

Terrestrial and Aquatic Plants Comparison Table

A table contrasting the growth environment, root characteristics, habitat adaptations, and structural needs of land and water plants.

Sunflower Movement

The slow turning of a sunflower toward sunlight during the day to capture more light for photosynthesis.

Vine Movement

The climbing or growing of a vine around a support to reach more sunlight and stay upright.

Root Movement

The downward growth of roots into the soil to absorb water and nutrients and hold the plant firmly.

Mimosa Movement

The closing of leaves when touched to help protect the plant and scare away insects or animals.

Plant Movement Summary Table

A table summarizing various plant movements (Sunflower, Vine, Roots, Mimosa) and how each movement helps the plant survive.