An adaptation is a feature that is common in a population because it provides some improved function. Adaptations are well fitted to their function and are produced by natural selection. Adaptations can take many forms: a behavior that allows better evasion of predators, a protein that functions better at body temperature, or an anatomical feature that allows the organism to access a valuable new resource — all of these might be adaptations. Many of the things that impress us most in nature are thought to be adaptations. EVOLUTIONARY ADAPTATION

Physical Change in the physical properties of an organism in response to genetic mutation or to a change in the environment. This occurs at the genetic level. Behavioral Change in the properties behavioral of an organism in response to genetic mutation or to a change in the environment. This occurs at the genetic level.

Coyote Expansion Western CoyoteEastern Coyote As coyotes moved east at the beginning to middle of the 20th century, they bred with red (Canis rufus) and eastern (Canis lycaon) wolves. Studies into coyote genetics show wolf DNA present in eastern populations of coyotes.

An adaptive radiation is an event in which a species rapidly diversifies, evolving different adaptations. Different factors may trigger adaptive radiations, but each is a response to an opportunity. A key adaptation means a organism changes to exploit a new niche or resource. Vacated niches give rise to adaptive radiation when there is no competition from other species. Specialization within a species subdivides a species to take advantage of different niches or food types. Adaptive radiation about change with a species. They do not become a different different organism. Birds still remain birds. Adaptive RadiationDarwin’s Finches