................ enable a plant or an animal to live in its surroundings.

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks what enables a plant or an animal to live in its surroundings.

2. **Defining Key Terms**: The term "adaptation" is crucial here. Adaptation refers to the characteristics or traits that help an organism survive and thrive in its environment.

3. **Role of Adaptation**: Adaptation allows plants and animals to adjust to their surroundings. This can include physical changes (like thicker fur in cold climates) or behavioral changes (like migrating to find food).

...