Final Answer
A fundamental mechanism of evolution Natural selection results in species that are better adapted to their environment through anatomical, physiological, or behavioral adaptations.
Explanation
Natural selection, a fundamental mechanism of evolution, leads to the survival and reproduction of individuals with advantageous traits. Anatomical adaptations refer to physical features, such as the shape of a bird's beak or the camouflage of an animal's fur, enabling better survival or reproduction in a specific environment.
Physiological adaptations involve changes in internal functions, like the ability of certain organisms to tolerate extreme temperatures or detoxify harmful substances. These adaptations optimize an organism's biological processes for their surroundings.
Behavioral adaptations encompass actions or responses that increase survival chances, like migration patterns or social behaviors within a species. For instance, animals may develop specific mating rituals or hunting techniques to thrive in their habitat.
Collectively, these adaptations demonstrate how natural selection molds species over time, favoring traits that enhance their fitness and ability to thrive within their ecological niche. Through this continuous process, species gradually evolve traits that make them increasingly suited to their environment, ensuring their survival and reproductive success.