The Chesapeake Blue Crab

Introduction/background
information about the species – Include common and
scientific names of the organism, the area you and this species live (country,
state, city, etc.), the area’s biome classification, etc.

2. Life
cycle of the species– Describe the life cycle of the organism you
have chosen. The life cycle of an organism refers to the series of changes in
both development and growth from its beginnings as an independent life form up
until maturity, when it is able to reproduce. Organisms like bacteria have
relatively simple life cycles; however other organisms (e.g., plants) have very
complex stages to their life cycle.

3. Structure
and Function– Describe the structure and function of at least one
major organ system of the species (e.g., digestive system, reproductive
system). Choose one system and explain how this organism’s system is structured
anatomically and physiologically. Identify any species-specific characteristics
or adaptations that are particularly unique to this organism and explain why.

4. Evolution
of the organism – Evolution is simply heritable change over time.
Sometimes changes from one generation to the next can give individuals an
advantage. Specifically a trait that increases reproductive success or survival
ability could be advantageous. Include a section in your profile paper about
your organism’s evolution. Here are possible ways to research the topic:

a. Conduct a
review of scientific literature to understand what is known about your
organism’s past evolution. Search key words may include evolution, fossil,
ancestor. Often technical reports from wildlife and conservation agencies have descriptions
of an organism’s evolution.

b. Summarize
research on any adaptive traits. Search key words include adaptation,
evolution, trait, and character