The process by which an organism adapts to its environment over generations is known as evolution. Through the mechanism of natural selection, organisms with traits better suited for their environment tend to survive and reproduce, passing those beneficial traits to future generations. This gradual change can result in the development of new species over long time periods. Environmental factors, such as climate, predation, and resource availability, play crucial roles in shaping these adaptations, demonstrating the dynamic relationship between organisms and their ecosystems.