# Explain how structural and behavioural adaptations help a polar bear survive in its Arctic environment.

> AQA GCSE Biology (8461) — 4.7.1 Adaptations, interdependence and competition · Explain · 4 marks

> The Arctic is an extreme environment with very low temperatures, strong winds and limited food availability for parts of the year.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Structural adaptation identified (e.g. thick layer of blubber / thick fur / white fur / large body size / small ears)
2. Explains how the structural adaptation increases chance of survival (e.g. blubber / thick fur insulates the bear, reducing heat loss)
3. Behavioural adaptation identified (e.g. hibernation / seasonal migration / hunting behaviour / storing fat before winter)
4. Explains how the behavioural adaptation increases chance of survival (e.g. hibernation reduces energy use when food is scarce, increasing chance of survival)

## Key terms

- [adaptation](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/adaptation)
- [structural](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/structural)
- [behavioural](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/behavioural)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA GCSE Biology (8461)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-structural-and-behavioural-adaptations-c2485bc2) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.