What does the term "survival of the fittest" specifically pertain to?

The term "survival of the fittest" specifically refers to the concept of adaptation to environmental changes. It encapsulates the idea that organisms that are better adapted to their environments are more likely to survive, reproduce, and pass on their traits to the next generation. This concept emphasizes that fitness is not solely about physical endurance or strength, but rather how well an organism's traits confer advantages in a given environment.

For instance, species that can effectively adapt to changes such as climate variations or resource availability are more likely to thrive and produce offspring. This perspective is rooted in the principles of natural selection proposed by Charles Darwin, where the "fittest" do not necessarily mean the strongest, but rather those best suited to their environment. The focus is thus on the long-term survival and reproductive success of adaptations rather than immediate struggles against specific challenges or threats.