University:
Michigan State University
Course:
BS 162 | Organismal and Population Biology
Academic year:

2023
Views:

263

Pages:

1
Author:

aprivantuqy

Adaptation in the Cheetah Adaptation in a population of living things happens as a result of an adaptive trait. This is any inheritable trait that increases it’s survival rate so that it can live longer, reproduce longer, and have more offspring (that also have that trait). Adaptive traits can improve animals find food, make a safer home, escape predators, survive cold or heat or lack of water. The cheetah is thought to be the fastest land animal in the world. It can reach speeds up to 70 mph (112 kph) in short spurts while chasing prey. This speed is a result of several adaptive traits working together. They have a slight frame and long legs that not only help with speed but agility during a chase. Their agility allows them to change direction quickly to follow running prey. Their spots act as camouflage while they wait in the tall grass or perched up high in the dappled light of an acacia tree. Their very long tail helps with balance when they run and leap. They are also the only cat without retractable claws, so perhaps digging in with their claws is another factor in their running abilities. All of these are physical adaptations that help make the cheetah a successful predator on the African savannah.