What is the definition of phenotypic plasticity?

Phenotypic plasticity refers to the capacity of an organism to change its phenotype in response to variations in environmental conditions. This means that rather than having a single, fixed set of characteristics, an organism can exhibit different traits depending on factors such as temperature, availability of resources, or other environmental stressors. This adaptability enhances the survival and reproductive success of the organism in diverse habitats.

For example, a plant may grow taller in low-light conditions to reach more sunlight, or it might alter its leaf shape in response to varying water availability. This flexibility is crucial for many organisms as it allows them to thrive in fluctuating environments, making phenotypic plasticity a significant aspect of their evolutionary strategy.

Other options discuss different concepts that do not align with the definition of phenotypic plasticity. Genetic variation pertains to the diversity of genetic traits within a population, fixed characteristics refer to traits that do not change regardless of the environment, and the process of natural selection involves changes in a population over generations rather than immediate adaptive responses.