Question

What is an adaptation? Mention the adaptations found in the following mammals.
(a) Whale (b) Polar bear (c) Kangaroo (d) Herbivorous mammals.

Answer 1

Adaptation is any alteration in the structure or function of an organism or any of its parts that results from natural selection and by which the organism becomes better fitted to survive and multiply in its environment. The adaptations found in some of the animals are

a. Whale: The main adaptions are developed echolocation, thick layers of blubber, modified lungs, better hearing, larger arteries to ensure their survival.

b. Polar bear: They have thick fur coats that help them keep warm in cold conditions. They have thick paws that help them run on the ice.

c. Kangaroo: They have very large tendons in their hind legs which act like springs so that they use less energy while jumping. They have very long and strong tails for balance.

d. Herbivorous mammals: As they totally depend on the plants, their mouthparts are adapted to grasping and grinding.