Huisdieren
Huisdieren
Two traits commonly altered by environmental variation are phenotypic plasticity and acclimatization.
Phenotypic Plasticity
This is the ability of an organism to change its observable traits—such as body size, shape, behavior, or physiology—in response to environmental conditions. For example, some animals grow thicker fur in cold climates or change their diet when food availability shifts. These adjustments help organisms survive in specific environments.
Acclimatization
Acclimatization refers to short-term physiological or behavioral adjustments made during an individual's lifetime in response to specific environmental changes, such as shifts in temperature or humidity. Unlike genetic adaptation, acclimatization is not passed to offspring. Examples include changes in body temperature, heart rate, or metabolism. These adjustments help maintain homeostasis and cope with immediate challenges.