Preadaptation

Hi there! Preadaptation is when something is really good at one thing, and it helps it become good at something else. Like when you practice playing the piano, and it helps you become better at playing other instruments.

It happens in nature too! Sometimes, a plant or animal has a trait that is really good for one thing, but it also helps them with something completely different. For example, a bird that has a beak that is perfect for cracking open nuts may also use it to defend itself from predators.

So, preadaptation is when one thing that is useful for something else kind of “sets the stage” for a new trait to emerge. It’s like having a head start!