Learning Objectives

4.1.1 Explain why the physical environment is the ultimate determinant of the geographic distribution of a species.

4.1.2 Differentiate between adaptation and acclimatization by explaining how both individual organisms and populations respond, but differently, to changes in the environment.

4.1.3 Illustrate how adaptation and acclimatization may result in trade-offs with other functions.

A fundamental principle in ecology is that the geographic ranges of species are related to constraints imposed by the physical and biological environments. In this section, we will discuss the general principles of organismal responses to the physical environment.