This phrase, coined by Herbert Spencer, emphasizes the idea that individuals with traits better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on those advantageous traits to their offspring.
While a widely used and understood term, it's important to note that "survival of the fittest" can be misleading. It's not simply about physical strength, but rather about the ability to adapt and thrive in a specific environment, which can include various traits like intelligence, camouflage, or disease resistance.