What does "phenotypic plasticity" refer to?

Phenotypic plasticity refers to the capacity of an organism to alter its phenotype in response to varying environmental conditions. This adaptation is crucial as it allows organisms to survive and thrive in changing habitats. For instance, a plant might develop deeper roots in a dry environment to access water or grow broader leaves in a shaded area to capture more sunlight. Such changes in phenotype do not involve alterations in the genotype but rather represent how the same genetic makeup can express differently based on external stimuli.

Phenotypic plasticity illustrates the dynamic relationship between organisms and their environments, emphasizing adaptability rather than fixed traits. This ability to respond to environmental changes can enhance survival and reproductive success, making it a key concept in ecology and evolutionary biology.