Evolution
Adaptation
A trait that increases an organism's fitness in its environment, or the evolutionary process by which such traits arise. Adaptations result from natural selection acting on genetic variation.
Biological Context
Adaptations can be structural (camouflage), physiological (antifreeze proteins), or behavioral (migration). They represent evolutionary 'solutions' to environmental challenges. Adaptations are always relative to specific environments—a trait adaptive in one context may be maladaptive in another.
Business Application
Business adaptations: capabilities that improve competitive fitness. Adaptations must match the environment—a capability valuable in one market may be useless or harmful in another. Over-adaptation to current conditions can impair response to change.