Adaptation in Animals

In biology, adaptation refers to the process by which animals develop characteristics that help them survive and reproduce in their environment. It occurs through natural selection, where organisms best suited to their surroundings have a higher chance of survival and passing on their traits to the next generation.

Adaptation has three key aspects:

1. Evolutionary Process: A long-term change in a species through natural selection to improve survival and reproduction.
2. State of a Population: A stable condition where most individuals in a population have developed beneficial traits.
3. Adaptive Traits: Specific physical, behavioural, or physiological characteristics that help an organism thrive in its habitat.

Types of adaptations in animals:

1. Structural Adaptations: Physical features like sharp claws (predators), thick fur (cold regions), and webbed feet (aquatic animals).
2. Behavioural Adaptations: Actions that improve survival, such as migration, hibernation, and hunting in packs.
3. Physiological Adaptations: Internal body functions like venom production (snakes), water retention (desert animals), and camouflage (chameleons).