# Adaptation

A feature of an organism that helps it survive in its habitat.

Biology (school) · Part 06: Variation and evolution · Card 4 of 11 · Last updated 2026-10-19

## Analogy

A coat that suits the weather.

## In practice

A camel's wide feet stop it sinking into sand.

## Practice

### Flashcards

- **What is an adaptation?** A feature that helps an organism survive in its habitat.

## Questions people ask

### What are some examples of adaptation?

Polar bears have thick fur, a layer of fat and white colouring to stay warm and hidden. Cacti store water in their stems and have spines instead of leaves to reduce water loss. Adaptations can be structural, like a shape, behavioural, like migrating, or functional, like how the body works.

### What is an extremophile?

An extremophile is an organism that lives in extreme conditions, such as very hot springs, very salty water or deep ocean vents. They are adapted by having enzymes and other body parts that still work under those harsh conditions. Many are bacteria.

## Related concepts

- [Natural selection](https://studyvisually.com/learn/science/biology-school/biology-school-part-6/biology-school-part-6-concept-3)
- [Evolution](https://studyvisually.com/learn/science/biology-school/biology-school-part-6/biology-school-part-6-concept-5)
- [Speciation](https://studyvisually.com/learn/science/biology-school/biology-school-part-6/biology-school-part-6-concept-6)
- [Extinction](https://studyvisually.com/learn/science/biology-school/biology-school-part-6/biology-school-part-6-concept-8)

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