Human Adaptations
Adaptations are present in every modern species on this planet. Typically they refer to genetic or, biological, adaptations. These adaptations occur within species' genetics. However,
There is also another form of adaptation that is exclusive to human-kind. Thesee are known as cultural adaptations. As you explore this website you will find the differences between the two
as well as some examples.
Genetic adaptations are present in all species as an evolutionary response. Genetic adaptation happens in populations and occurs over several generations. The
reason these adaptations occur are to boost survivability aswell as to increase reproductivity.
These changes are irreversible meaning, once a species has adapted they cannot revert. As the name implies as well, these changes occur within the genes
of a species.
UV Radiation
Humans have developed varying skin pigmentation as a result of exposure to UV radiation. Darker skin, rich in melanin, protects
against the harmful effects of UV radiation, including skin cancer and folate degradation, and is prevalent in areas closer to the equator, which naturally have higher UV levels.
Body Hair
Humans have undergone a significant genetic adaptation in relation to body hair. Unlike their hairy ancestors,
today's humans have significantly reduced body hair compared to their ancestors.
As humans evolved, the loss of body hair provided several advantages. It allowed for better body cooling, in form of sweating.
Additionally, reduced body hair helped early humans in avoiding parasites and provided better sensitivity to touch.
I personally believe as well that clothing being a cultural adaptation may have also supported humans shedding their hair if
the human ancestors were developing and wearing clothes.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose tolerance/intolerance is an interesting case of genetic adaptation in human populations. Most mammals, including early humans, lose their ability to digest lactose after weaning. However, in cultures where dairy farming became prevalent, a genetic mutation allowing lactose digestion to continue into adulthood became advantageous and spread through those populations.
Cultural adaptations, unlike genetic adaptations, are unique to only humans and are how humans respond to their environment non-physiologically. These adaptations are not rooted in our DNA, but rather in shared knowledge, beliefs, and behaviors. Cultural adaptations can significantly enhance survival and reproduction, much like their genetic counterparts. However, in contrast to genetic changes, cultural adaptations can be deliberately implemented, can occur within a single generation, and are reversible or modifiable over time.
Clothing
Humans use clothing as a cultural adaptation to various climates. For instance, the Inuit people use fur clothing to insulate against the cold, while desert-dwelling cultures often wear loose, light-colored clothing to reflect sunlight and aid cooling.
UV Radiation
Parallel to the genetic adaptations to UV radiation, humans have also developed cultural adaptations,
such as the invention and use of sunscreen. Acting as a shield, sunscreen provides SPF protection that helps
block harmful UV radiation. This not only prevents painful sunburns, but also significantly reduces the risk of skin
conditions like premature aging and skin cancer.
Transportation
Unlike many other species, humans have developed a wide range of transportation methods
tailored to the unique environments in which they live. In regions characterized by large bodies
of water or intricate canal systems, boats become a vital means of travel. Conversely,
in densely populated urban areas like San Francisco, public transit systems such as buses and other forms of public transportation are common,
efficiently carrying people through city streets. The diversity in transportation methods that humans have created is a testament to our
ingenuity and ability to adapt to the many challenges posed by different environments.
Adaptation is a change in the physical characteristics of an animal that provides a reproductive advantage.
- Charles Darwin, Father of Evolution