Arizona State University (ASU) BIO 345 Evolution Exam 2 Practice

Adaptation in evolutionary biology specifically refers to the physical alterations that enhance an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in its particular environment. These changes can manifest in various forms, such as structural modifications, physiological processes, or behavioral traits that have evolved over time in response to selective pressures.

For instance, a common example of adaptation is the development of thicker fur in animals that live in cold climates, which helps them retain body heat. This process occurs over many generations through the mechanism of natural selection, where favorable traits increase an organism's chances of survival and reproduction.

Unlike temporary responses to environmental changes or changes in behavioral practices, which may occur within an individual’s lifetime and do not involve genetic changes, adaptations are long-term evolutionary modifications that are heritable. Additionally, adaptations are not limited to traits inherited through sexual reproduction; they can also arise from mutations and other genetic mechanisms across generations. Thus, the emphasis on enduring physical alterations for survival highlights the essence of what it means to adapt in the context of evolutionary biology.