International Journal of Molecular Evolution and Biodiversity 2024, Vol.14, No.1, 1-9 http://ecoevopublisher.com/index.php/ijmeb 7 ecosystems are rich and diverse, and different mammals have evolved different food selection strategies. For example, waterfowl such as ducks obtain food by filtering plankton from the water, while bears in rivers may catch fish and other aquatic organisms. 4.2 Adaptive variation in marine ecosystems Marine ecosystems cover most of the surface of the Earth, and their characteristics include factors such as saltwater, pressure, and tides. Mammals exhibit unique adaptive variations under these conditions. Marine mammals such as whales and dolphins have special respiratory adaptations, as they can hold their breath for long periods of time and dive deep into the deep sea to prey and escape predators. Their lungs and blood systems enable them to effectively utilize oxygen and quickly adapt to changes in depth and water pressure. Some marine mammals, such as polar bears and sea dragons, exhibit migratory and seasonal behavior. They travel across vast oceans and adapt to different ecological conditions based on seasonal food and reproductive needs. 4.3 Adaptive variation in wetland and estuarine ecosystems Wetlands and estuarine areas are the intersection of freshwater and marine ecosystems, providing unique habitats. Mammals exhibit adaptive variation in these environments. Some mammals, such as beavers and water deer, have adapted to wetland life. Their body shape and behavior enable them to search for food and build nests by the water’s edge. The estuarine ecosystem is usually a rich gathering place for food resources, attracting many mammals. Some mammals, such as seals and beavers, use fish, shellfish, and aquatic plants in estuaries to obtain food. 4.4 Protection and management of genomic adaptive variations Mammals in aquatic ecosystems face challenges in survival and reproduction, including habitat destruction, climate change, and pollution. Protecting and managing these ecosystems is crucial to ensure that the adaptive variation of mammals is maintained. Establishing nature reserves and water conservation areas helps to maintain mammalian habitats, reduce human interference and development. This can provide relatively stable ecological conditions and help maintain adaptive variation. Sustainable water resource management is crucial for maintaining freshwater ecosystems. Ensuring appropriate water flow and quality helps maintain the food chain and habitat, promoting the adaptability of mammals. Climate change has had adverse effects on marine and aquatic ecosystems, including rising sea levels and rising water temperatures. Taking measures to mitigate climate change can help reduce these impacts and help protect the adaptability of mammals. 5 Ecological Factors Affecting Adaptive Variation Adaptive variation is one of the key factors in how mammals adapt to their survival and reproductive needs under different environmental conditions (MacColl, 2011). This adaptive variation is influenced by various ecological factors, including niche and resource utilization, climate change and environmental pressure, as well as population genetic structure. Protecting and managing adaptive mutations helps ensure that mammals can survive and reproduce under different environmental conditions, maintaining the stability and biodiversity of ecosystems. This requires comprehensive protection measures, including habitat protection, population management, and climate change mitigation. 5.1 Niche and resource utilization Niche refers to the specific status and role of a biological population in an ecosystem, covering how they obtain food, choose their habitat, and interact with other species. The food choices and resource utilization of mammals are influenced by their ecological niches. Different types of mammals have evolved different food selection strategies, reflecting their position in the food chain. For example, carnivorous animals such as lions are adapted to prey on other animals, while herbivorous animals such as elephants are adapted to feed on plants. Niche also affects the way mammals choose their habitat. Some mammals adapt to aquatic life, living in lakes, rivers, and oceans, while others are more adapted to terrestrial habitats. This choice is influenced by habitat types, competition, and food resources.
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