Adaptations in Camels5.10A

Adaptations in CamelsAdaptations are special characteristics that an organism is born with and which enable it to survive in its natural habitat. Adaptations are not developed in the course of an organism's life. The following adaptations show how a camel is specially suited to live in the desert.

Adaptations in Camels

Adaptation: Fat stored in hump(s)

Function: Help it to survive long periods without food and water

Adaptation: Two rows of long eyelashes

Function: Protect against blowing sand and the sun

Adaptations in Camels

Adaptation: Broad, flat, leathery pads at the bottom of their hooves

Function: Pads spread out when the camel places feet on the ground, preventing the camel from sinking into the sand

Adaptation: Thick leathery patches on knees

Function: Protect it from getting burned when it kneels on the hot desert sand

Adaptations in Camels

Adaptation: Thick fur and underwool

Function: Provide warmth during cold desert nights and insulation against daytime heat

Adaptation: Nostrils can be closed

Function: Keep out blowing sand

Adaptations in CamelsAdaptation: Long strong legs

Function: Help carry heavy loads over long distances and keep its body further away from the hot sand