Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Physiological adaptation refers to the internal changes that organisms undergo in order to survive and thrive in their environment. These adaptations can include changes in metabolism, body temperature regulation, or organ function.
Related terms
Structural adaptation: Physical features or body structures that help an organism survive in its environment.
Behavioral adaptation: Actions or behaviors exhibited by organisms to increase their chances of survival.
Homeostasis: The ability of an organism to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.