Adaptations to Cold
The poles are an ever changed land, ruled by ice. A land which we humans can only every really be visitors to. The animals and plants that live here must be well adapted to the harsh conditions that are so unforgiving.
Among the physiological adaptations that have evolved in response to the cold are thick fur, thick layer of fat (blubber), brown adipose tissue, counter-current heat exchange, supercooling, antifreeze blood, etc. Some of these adaptations can be seen summarised in the diagram of the caribou below.
Among the physiological adaptations that have evolved in response to the cold are thick fur, thick layer of fat (blubber), brown adipose tissue, counter-current heat exchange, supercooling, antifreeze blood, etc. Some of these adaptations can be seen summarised in the diagram of the caribou below.
Ultimate Wildlife: Adapting to Cold