What term refers to inherited traits that improve an organism's fitness in a given environment?

• A. Artificial System of Classification
• B. Adaptation
• C. Autotroph
• D. Bathyal Zone

Answer: (B)

Adaptation is the inherited trait that increases an organism’s fitness in a specific environment. These traits come from genetic variation and are favored by natural selection, so individuals with advantageous traits survive and reproduce more, passing those traits to the next generation. Over time, populations accumulate adaptations that help them survive, grow, and reproduce in their surroundings. For example, camouflage can help avoid predators, or physiological traits can improve tolerance to a local climate.

The other terms don’t describe inherited traits that boost fitness. An artificial system of classification is taxonomy, which groups organisms. An autotroph is an organism that can synthesize its own food, not a specific inherited trait affecting fitness. The bathyal zone is a depth region in the ocean, not a biological term about traits.