Organisms adapt to their environments through changes in their genes and how genes are expressed, processes that can happen over many generations even in laboratory settings. Scientists study these adaptations in fungi, insects, and plants grown under controlled conditions to understand how evolution works over shorter timeframes. The research shows that both genetic mutations and modifications to how genes work (without changing DNA itself) drive these adaptive changes. Understanding these mechanisms helps scientists improve crop productivity, develop disease resistance, and address environmental challenges like climate change.