Which adaptation helps the camel to survive in hot and dry desert?a)It...
Camel is called the' ship of the desert'. It is used for transportation. It stores reserve food in the form of fat in its hump for future use. A camel's hump does not hold water at all – it actually stores fat.
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Which adaptation helps the camel to survive in hot and dry desert?a)It...
Adaptations of the Camel in a Hot and Dry Desert
The camel is a remarkable animal that has evolved several adaptations to survive in hot and dry desert environments. One of the key adaptations is the ability to store fat in its hump, which can be broken down when the camel needs energy.
Storing Fat in the Hump
- The camel's hump is not filled with water but rather with fatty tissue.
- As the camel consumes food and water, the excess energy is stored in the form of fat in its hump.
- The fat in the hump can be broken down into energy when the camel needs it, providing a source of sustenance when food and water are scarce in the desert.
Advantages of Fat Storage
- The ability to store fat allows the camel to go for long periods without food and water.
- When water is limited, the camel can rely on the stored fat to provide energy, reducing the need for frequent food intake.
- This adaptation helps the camel conserve water, as the breakdown of fat for energy produces metabolic water, which is a byproduct of the fat metabolism.
Other Adaptations
While storing fat in its hump is a crucial adaptation, the camel also possesses other characteristics that enable its survival in the desert:
Thick Skin and Hair
- The camel's skin is thick and tough, providing protection against the harsh desert environment.
- It also has a dense coat of hair that helps insulate the body and prevent excessive heat gain.
Efficient Water Conservation
- The camel has specialized kidneys that allow it to reabsorb water from its urine.
- This helps the camel conserve water by producing concentrated urine and reducing water loss.
Ability to Withstand Extreme Temperatures
- Camels have a high tolerance for extreme temperatures, both hot and cold.
- Their large nostrils and long nasal passages help regulate the temperature of the air they breathe, preventing excessive heat loss or gain.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the camel's ability to store fat in its hump is a crucial adaptation that allows it to survive in hot and dry desert environments. This adaptation, along with other characteristics such as thick skin, efficient water conservation, and temperature regulation, enables the camel to thrive in harsh desert conditions where food and water are scarce.