Science
Adaptation.
Definition
An adaptation is a heritable trait that increases an organism's fitness (ability to survive and reproduce) in its specific environment. Adaptations arise through natural selection over many generations as organisms with beneficial traits leave more offspring.
Examples
Real-world.
- 1 The thick fur and fat layer of polar bears are adaptations to Arctic cold
- 2 Cactus spines are modified leaves that reduce water loss—an adaptation to desert environments
- 3 The peppered moth's color shift during the Industrial Revolution demonstrated adaptation to pollution-darkened trees