Maladapted

The term 'maladapted' refers to the failure of an organism, behavior, or social phenomenon to adjust effectively to environmental conditions or circumstances. This inadequacy often leads to negative consequences for survival, reproduction, or social cohesion, highlighting the importance of adaptability in various contexts.

Maladapted meaning with examples

• The invasive species quickly became maladapted to the local ecosystem, leading to its rapid decline as it was unable to compete with native flora and fauna.
• In a rapidly changing technological landscape, companies that remain maladapted to new digital trends may soon find themselves irrelevant, overshadowed by more agile competitors.
• Maladapted behaviors in children, such as excessive shyness or aggression, can hinder their ability to form healthy relationships and to navigate the complexities of social interaction effectively.
• The research indicated that certain human populations are maladapted to climate extremes, leading to higher mortality rates during heatwaves and cold spells due to inadequate physiological responses.
• When an organization is maladapted to its market environment, it may fail to meet customer needs adequately, resulting in decreased sales and loss of market share.