What does adaptation in living organisms refer to?

Adaptation in living organisms refers to changes that improve their capacity for survival in a particular environment. This process occurs over generations and enhances an organism's ability to thrive and reproduce in its surroundings. Adaptations can involve physiological, morphological, or behavioral traits that increase an organism's fitness, which is the ability to pass on genes to the next generation.

For instance, an organism may develop a thicker fur coat in response to colder climates, which improves its chances of survival by better insulating it against cold temperatures. This is a prime example of how adaptations serve a purpose in ensuring that species can continue to exist and prosper in a variety of ecological conditions. The concept of adaptation is a crucial element of the theory of evolution, emphasizing that change over time can lead to significant improvements in survival capabilities.