adaptation

Definition

Adaptation is the process by which organisms change or adjust to their environment over time. This can happen through natural selection, which is the process by which organisms with traits that help them survive and reproduce are more likely to pass on those traits to their offspring.

There are two main types of adaptation: morphological and behavioural.

Morphological adaptation refers to changes in the physical appearance of an organism. For example, a plant that lives in a desert might develop a thick, waxy cuticle to help it retain water.

Behavioural adaptation refers to changes in the behaviour of an organism. For example, a bird that lives in a cold climate might migrate to warmer areas in the winter.

Adaptation is essential for survival. Organisms that are able to adapt to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on their adaptive traits to the next generation. This is how evolution works.

Here are some examples of adaptation:

Morphological adaptation:
A plant that grows a thicker cuticle in response to a lack of water.
A rabbit that evolves a white coat in response to living in a snowy environment.
A bird that learns to sing a new song in order to attract a mate.

Behavioural adaptation:

A fish that changes its colour to match its surroundings.
A deer that learns to run faster in order to escape from predators.
A bird that builds a nest in a safe location to protect its eggs.

How can the word be used?

The bird's adaptation to its environment allowed it to find food and mates.

Different forms of the word

Noun:

adaptation (no plural form).
the process of adapting or the state of being adapted.
adaptations (plural).
specific changes or adjustments that an organism makes to its environment.

Adjective:

adaptive.
able to adapt or adjust to new conditions.
adaptable.
able to be adapted.

Verb:

adapt.
to change or adjust to new conditions.
to make something suitable for a new purpose.

Etymology

The word adaptation comes from the Latin word adaptare, which means "to fit". It is a verb that can be used in a variety of contexts, but it is most commonly used in the context of biology and ecology.

Question

What is adaptation?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question: Adaptation is the process by which organisms change or adjust to their environment over time. Give two examples of morphological adaptations and two examples of behavioural adaptations.

This question would test your understanding of the different types of adaptation and how they can help organisms survive in their environment. You would need to be able to identify two examples of morphological adaptation, such as a plant that grows a thicker cuticle in response to a lack of water, and two examples of behavioural adaptation, such as a bird that migrates to warmer areas in the winter.

Here are some possible answers to the question:

Morphological adaptations:
A plant that grows a thicker cuticle in response to a lack of water.
A rabbit that evolves a white coat in response to living in a snowy environment.

Behavioural adaptations:

A fish that changes its colour to match its surroundings.
A deer that learns to run faster in order to escape from predators.