In biological terms, what is the significance of "adaptation"?

Adaptation is significant in biological terms because it refers to the gradual changes organisms undergo over time that enhance their ability to survive and reproduce in a given environment. This process is driven by natural selection, where traits that confer an advantage in a specific setting become more common in a population. Over generations, these beneficial traits become more pronounced, leading to a population that is better suited to its environment. For example, a species may develop a thicker coat in response to colder climates or evolve a different beak shape to access new food sources. This ongoing process of adaptation is crucial for the evolution of species, as it enables them to thrive despite changing environmental conditions.