The Thorny devil

Overview
The thorny devil, also known as the mountain devil or
thorny lizard, is a fascinating reptile that has adapted
to survive in the harsh conditions of the Australian
desert.

Structural adaptations

The Thorny Devil has several structural

adaptations help it survive in harsh
environments. The thorny devil has spiny,
textured skin that helps it to blend into its
surroundings and protect itself from
predators. Its flattened head and grooved
scales allow it to collect and drink water. Its
long, spiny neck is used to catch insects for
food. These adaptations help the thorny
devil to survive by allowing it to find food
and water and protect itself from predators.

Physiological adaptations
The physiological characteristics of the
thorny devil allow it to survive in its dry
environment. In times of drought, it can slow
down its metabolism and store water in its
bladder. By taking a sunbath or hiding in the
shade, it can also control its body
temperature. These adaptations make it
possible for the thorny devil to withstand
harsh environments and conserve resources,
which allows it to flourish where other
creatures might struggle.

Behavioural adaptations
The behavioural adaptations of the thorny devil allow it
to survive in its environment. In order to warm up and
become more active when the weather is suitable for
foraging, it basks in the sun. During foraging, it can
change its path to avoid danger and predators and
defend itself by using its spiny body. By locating food
and avoiding danger, the thorny devil can improve its
chances of survival.
 MANGROVES
Overview
Mangroves are a group of salt-tolerant trees and shrubs
that live in the coastal intertidal zone. They have unique
adaptations to thrive in harsh conditions, such as
specialized roots that anchor them and protect against
erosion, and cells that exclude salt from their tissues.
Mangroves provide habitat for diverse marine and coastal
species and protect coastal communities from storms and
erosion.

Structural adaptations
Mangrove trees have unique root structures, such as prop
roots, stilt roots, and pneumatophores, which aid in
stability, oxygen absorption, and gas exchange. They have
waxy coverings to stop water loss and can excrete extra
salt through their leaves. They are able to thrive in
intertidal areas where the soil is saturated with water and
contains a lot of salt because of their adaptations. They
safeguard the shore, serve as vital habitats for several
species, and serve as significant carbon sinks.

Physiological adaptations
Mangrove trees have several physiological adaptations
that enable them to survive in the challenging
environments of intertidal zones. They have special
defences to deal with seawater, depleted soils of
nutrients, and low oxygen levels. They are essential to
coastal ecosystems because they provide many
species with vital habitats, protect from erosion, and act
as significant carbon sinks.

Behavioural adaptations
Mangrove trees do not have behavioural adaptations as they are
stationary organisms and cannot move to respond to their
environment. However, some animals that live in mangrove
ecosystems have behavioural adaptations to survive in this habitat.
For example, some crabs have adapted to climb trees to escape
predators and find food. Additionally, some fish and birds eat and
breed to coincide with the availability of food in the intertidal
zone, taking advantage of the tides to their benefit.