Over a span of several thousand years,a number of species show adaptations to climate change: drier,warmer conditions select for succulent vegetation and deep taproots in plants,burrowing in mammals and amphibians,and other similar adaptive changes.What will happen if the climate shifts in the opposite direction and becomes progressively wetter and cooler?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Different adaptive trends will probably be favored in the new climatic environment. The adaptations that have been beneficial in warmer and drier conditions may not be useful in a wetter and cooler climate, so new adaptations may arise. It is unlikely that adaptation will cease altogether, as there will still be selective pressures and organisms will need to adjust to the changing conditions. Existing adaptations may also continue to be beneficial, but organisms will likely need to add on additional adaptations to deal with the new challenges posed by the changing climate.

Over a Span of Several Thousand Years,a Number of Species