What adaptations do animals have to help them survive in specific environments?

Animals living in harsh environments may have adaptations to help them survive. For example, animals living in hot conditions, like camels, have many features to help them survive. Camels have humps which can store water for long periods of time. This water store can be used as a reserve in times of water shortage. They also have long eyelashes to protect their eyes from sand and dust, and have wide feet to allow them to walk in the dessert. Animals living in cold conditions, such as polar bears, are also adapted to their environment. Polar bears have thick layers of fat and fur, to insulate them. They also have white fur to camouflage them from predators and prey, so they are harder to spot. They also have greasy fur, which helps with waterproofing, so they dry quickly after swimming.

RY
Answered by Rachael Y. Biology tutor

5636 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain what happens to plant shoots when sunlight only reaches one side of the tip


Explain the differences between meiosis and mitosis


How are enzymes involved in digestion?


Originally there was only one species of finch (bird) in the Galapagos Islands. However there are now 14 different species of finch in the Galapagos Islands. Suggest an explanation for the development of the 14 different species.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning