The surroundings in which an animal lives and grows is called itsa)Cli...
**Habitat: The Surroundings of an Animal**
The correct answer is option 'B' - Habitat.
**Explanation:**
A habitat is the specific area or surroundings where an animal lives, grows, and finds all the necessary resources for survival. It provides food, water, shelter, and other essential conditions required by the animal to thrive and reproduce.
**Characteristics of a Habitat:**
1. **Physical Environment:** A habitat includes both the biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) components. It encompasses various factors such as climate, soil, water availability, temperature, light intensity, and geographical features.
2. **Food and Water Sources:** Animals depend on their habitat to provide suitable food and water sources. Different habitats support different types of plants, insects, or prey animals that serve as food sources for specific species.
3. **Shelter:** Habitats offer different types of shelter, such as trees, burrows, caves, or coral reefs, depending on the environment. These shelters protect animals from predators, extreme weather conditions, and provide a safe place to rest or raise their young.
4. **Suitable Conditions for Reproduction:** Animals require a habitat that provides suitable conditions for reproduction. This includes appropriate mating areas, nesting sites, or breeding grounds, which are essential for the continuation of the species.
**Examples of Habitats:**
1. **Forest:** A forest habitat consists of a dense growth of trees, shrubs, and plants. It provides a diverse ecosystem with a wide variety of animals, birds, insects, and reptiles.
2. **Desert:** A desert habitat is characterized by extreme aridity and limited water availability. Animals living in deserts have adaptations to conserve water and withstand high temperatures.
3. **Ocean:** The ocean habitat includes various zones such as coral reefs, deep sea, and coastal areas. It supports a wide range of marine life, including fish, mammals, crustaceans, and algae.
4. **Grassland:** Grasslands are vast areas covered with grass and few scattered trees. They are home to grazing animals like zebras, antelopes, and bison.
In conclusion, a habitat plays a crucial role in determining an animal's survival and well-being. It provides the necessary resources and conditions for an animal to live, grow, and reproduce successfully.