What is an adaptation?

An adaptation is defined as a trait that enhances an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in its specific environment. Such traits can be physical features, behaviors, or physiological processes developed over time through the process of evolution. For instance, the thick fur of polar bears is an adaptation that helps them to survive in cold Arctic environments by providing insulation against the cold. Adaptations improve the organism's chances of survival and reproduction, which is crucial for the continuation of their species.

This concept is critical in understanding how species evolve and better fit into their ecological niches over time. It emphasizes the relationship between an organism's traits and its environment, illustrating the role that natural selection plays in shaping life on Earth.