According to the theory of evolution postulated by Charles Darwin, animals have certain heritable traits that enable them to survive to a particular ecological niche (Larsen, 2014). The traits further allow them to reproduce thus passing their genes to the next generation. An example of an animal that typifies adaptation as postulated by Darwin is the giraffe. Its long neck enables it to survive in savanna vegetation since it feeds both on grassland and on the treetops due to its height. The long neck is not only essential in grazing but also assists it in keeping track of potential predators and as a way of communication with other giraffes.
Adaptation occurs as a result of mutations and natural selection. Whereas mutations can occur instantly due to alterations in the DNA sequence, natural selection happens over time (Larsen, 2014). It is through natural selection that animals such as giraffes have been able to survive in their environment. Their advantageous traits such as the long neck, ability to withstanding lengthy periods without water, amongst other physical adaptations enables them to survive and reproduce (Brandon, 2014). Such advantageous characteristics have been passed down various giraffe generations allowing them to exist in their current ecological niches.
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A gazelle is also an herbivore just like a giraffe. They also depend on herbs on the ground level to feed and survive due to their heights. However, in the case of overpopulation that comes with the attainment of the carrying capacity, the food resources will likely be depleted. Eventualities such as drought will also implicate the available food resources. Therefore, a gazelle will probably not survive in an environment with diverse food resources because of its disadvantageous traits. Since it will not feed on leaves and shrubs on the treetops like a giraffe, it will suffer due to drought and competition leading to death.
References
Larsen, C. S. (2014). Our Origins: Discovering physical anthropology . WW Norton & Company.
Brandon, R. N. (2014). Adaptation and environment (Vol. 1040). Princeton University Press.
