Sullivan: Animal Adaptation for a Specific Enviornment

Leafy Seadragon, or Phycodurus eques, found at 42°21'32.40"N 71°02'58.78"W.

The Leafy Seadragon has adapted to its environment off the south and east coast of Australia in order to blend in and avoid predators. The leaf-like parts of the organism resemble seaweed and other plants that surround it, which makes finding and hunting the Leafy Seadragon very difficult for predators. This organism has adapted to the kelp and seaweed in its environment by camouflaging itself.

Winter Flounder, or Pleuronectes americanus, found at 42°21'32.40"N 71°02'58.78"W.

The Winter Flounder, which can be found in ocean waters around New England, the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast of the U.S., and Eastern Canada, has adapted to its environment in several ways. First, its dark, brown color and spotted appearance allow it to blend in with the ocean bottom. It is better protected against predators because it is camouflaged. Its coloration not only protects it from predators, but it also allows the fish to ambush its prey. Since only one side of the flounder's body is colored to blend with the environment, it spends the majority of its time laying on the ground with its right side up. The organism's eyes are both located on its right side, which is an adaptation to better its vision.