In this deck, we'll explore how organisms are suited to their environments. A key concept for your exam is the 'adaptive feature'. This is an inherited feature that helps an organism to survive and reproduce in its environment. The key words here are 'inherited', 'survive', and 'reproduce'.

For your exam, it's not enough to just name an adaptive feature. You need to explain it using a three-step process. First, identify the feature. Second, describe its function. Third, and most importantly, link its function to how it increases the organism's chances of survival or reproduction.

Let's look at plants adapted to very dry conditions, like deserts. These are called xerophytes. Their main challenge is to reduce water loss from their leaves, and to absorb or store as much water as possible.