Camels

Ÿ Adapted to the hot and dry conditions of a desert

Ÿ Hump which stores fat. Fat is a thermal insulator which reduces
heat loss and water loss from sweating.
Ÿ Metabolic reactions produce water from the fat.
Ÿ Thick coat insulates camel and reduces sweating.
Ÿ Leathery mouth to chew food
Ÿ Long eyelashes to keep dust out if their eyes.
Ÿ Can close nostrils to keep dust out.
Ÿ Wide feet to prevent it sinking into sand.
Ÿ Concentrated urine and dry faeces which reduce water loss
Ÿ Can tolerate very large changes in their body temperature which
helps them cope with the intense heat of the desert
Ÿ

1. Structural adaptations
Adaptations of body shape and body structure
2. Functional adaptations
Adaptations to the body functions
3. Behavioural adaptations
Adaptations to the animal’s behaviour and lifestyle

Extremophiles – organisms adapted to extreme conditions

- Conditions are extremely harsh e.g., high temperature and
pressure
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