Question

Short answer type questions
Explain, how birds have adapted themselves to an aerial mode of life

Answer 1

Birds exhibit less diversity due to their adaptation for the aerial mode of life. They prominently inhabit aerial environment, while a few inhabit aquatic environments

These are the following reasons, why birds are adapted to aerial mode of life:

1. Birds are endothermal or warm-blooded animals.

2. Body is streamlined and compactly arranged to suit their adaptation for flights.

3. It is normally spindle-shaped and light due to the presence of air sacs.

4. Forelimbs are modified as wings.

5. Hind limbs are large and bear the weight of the whole animal.

6. Body is covered by feathers. They form a part of the exoskeleton.

7. The feathers are of four types- 1.Contour feathers

2.Filoplumes

3.Quill feathers and

4.Down feathers.

Because of the presences of air sacs and feathers, makes the birds adapt the aerial mode of life