Question

Explain with the help of suitable examples the different ways by which organisms overcome their stressful conditions lasting for short duration.

Answer 1

• The different ways by which organisms overcome the stressful conditions are:-
  

1) Migration:- Organisms move or migrate from their native places during stressful conditions (unfavourable climate, disasters etc.) to a more hospitable area.

• They return when the stressful period is over.
• Eg- humans moving from Delhi to Shimla during summer.

2) Spore Formation:- Various kinds of thick-walled spores are formed which germinate on the availability of suitable environment.

• Eg- bacteria, fungi etc.
  

3) Dormancy:- Seeds or Vegetative reproductive structures help to overcome the stress by reducing their metabolic activity by becoming dormant.

• Eg- seeds or vegetative reproductive structures of higher plants.
  

4) Hibernation:- During winters some organisms reduce their metabolic activity by going into winter sleep or hibernation.

• Eg- bear, lizards etc.
  

5) Aestivation:- Organisms undergo a long phase of inactivity during summer to avoid heat and desiccation.

• Eg- Snails, fish etc.