Song of Survival: Finch Adaptations in the Rapidly Warming Outback | Evolution Earth

Support learning about adaptation and how environmental fitness can happen in a single generation — if the triggers are strong enough. In this case study from Australia, biologist Mylene Mariette presents the hows and whys of an adaptative behavior she discovered in zebra finches during extreme heat events. The behavior resulted in the development of increased heat adaptation in the finches’ offspring.

Discussion questions and activities are designed to help students understand the theory of natural selection through the driving force of rapid changes in climate. Students can further learn how existing anatomical, behavioral, and physiological adaptations can present themselves through phenotypic and developmental plasticity.