Which term refers to a physiological response that allows an organism to survive in its environment?

• A. Metabolic Reaction
• B. Physiological Adaptation
• C. Behavioral Adaptation
• D. Homeostasis

Answer: (B)

When organisms cope with environmental pressures, bodily traits that have evolved to fit those conditions are physiological adaptations. These changes in how the body functions or processes work—such as altered enzyme activity, kidney function, or pigment production—help the organism survive in a particular environment. They’re heritable and shaped by natural selection, making them practical, long-term solutions to environmental challenges.

Metabolic reactions describe specific chemical steps inside cells and aren’t about an organism’s overall trait for surviving in a environment. Behavioral adaptations refer to actions or strategies, like migration or hibernation, rather than physiological changes. Homeostasis is the regulation of internal conditions to keep them stable; it supports survival but isn’t itself a trait evolved to match environmental conditions.