Reproduction is important for every type of living thing. Without it, species would die out. To ensure their survival, animals have developed unique adaptations to improve their chances of reproducing. Behavioral adaptations are behaviors an organism performs to help it survive. Structural adaptations are physical features that help an organism survive.

The image below shows two peacocks. The male peacock is large and brightly colored. The female peacock is not as colorful. The size and color of the male's feathers attract females. This is an example of a structural adaptation intended to help with reproduction. Another structural adaptation is when male deer grow large antlers to attract females. Animals also use behavioral adaptations to attract mates. For example, male frogs sing to attract females and male spiders dance to attract females.



Plants also have adaptations to help with reproduction. While animals use behavioral and structural adaptations to improve reproduction, plants only use structural adaptations. For example, brightly colored flowers attract butterflies. Certain flowers also have nectar or give off an odor to attract insects. Attracting butterflies and other insects is important because they play a role in reproduction by pollination.

Which of the following describes an adaptation that relates to reproduction?

A. Hawks have sharp beak to help them quickly catch their prey
B. Elks attach leaves and grasses to their antlers to help them appear larger
C. Polar bears have white fur to help them blend into their surrounding environment
D. Whales have a thick layer of fat called blubber