What is meant by "survival of the fittest"?

The phrase "survival of the fittest" is often associated with the theory of natural selection, where "fittest" refers to an individual's ability to survive and reproduce in its environment. The correct interpretation is that individuals who produce the most offspring are considered the most fit because they contribute the most to the genetic pool of the next generation. This concept emphasizes reproductive success, meaning that fitness is measured not just by survival but by the ability to pass on advantageous traits to future generations.

In the context of evolution, those individuals that can adapt best to their environments and reproduce successfully are more likely to have their traits inherited by the next generation. Hence, fitness is not just about survival alone; it is intrinsically linked to reproductive success and the continuation of genetic traits in the population.