Adaptations, or adjustments, refer to the changes that organisms make to survive and thrive in their environments. These changes can be physical, like the thick fur of polar bears that helps them stay warm in icy habitats, or behavioral, such as birds migrating to warmer areas during winter. In addition to animals, plants also exhibit adaptations. For example, cacti have developed thick, waxy skin to reduce water loss in arid deserts. These adaptations are essential for the survival of species, allowing them to cope with challenges like climate, food availability, and predators.