Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct answer to each of the questions from 23 to 30.
Adaptations of Large Desert Animals
Large desert animals have developed remarkable adaptations to survive in extreme heat. One such adaptation is their light-colored fur, which reflects sunlight and reduces heat absorption. Unlike most mammals, which maintain a constant internal temperature, desert mammals allow their body temperatures to rise during the day. Grant's gazelles, for example, can tolerate body temperatures as high as 46°C. This approach conserves water and energy that would otherwise be used for cooling. At night, when desert temperatures drop, their bodies cool naturally, sometimes to as low as 34°C in camels. This daily temperature fluctuation allows them to absorb morning heat without overheating, delaying the effects of the desert's intense heat.
Another vital adaptation is their ability to endure extreme water loss. Camels, for instance, can lose up to 30% of their body weight in water without harm, whereas humans may die after losing only 12-13%. Desert animals can also rehydrate quickly by drinking large amounts of water in a short time. Camels, for example, can drink over 100 liters in minutes, while humans cannot due to stomach limitations and the risk of water intoxication.
These animals can also feed normally even when severely dehydrated, a condition that typically suppresses appetite in humans. Their ability to tolerate dehydration allows them to travel far from water sources and graze in scattered pastures.
In conclusion, desert animals possess unique adaptations that enable them to thrive in harsh environments. Their ability to manage heat, conserve water, and maintain normal feeding patterns reflects their resilience and the delicate balance of desert ecosystems. These remarkable survival strategies highlight the ingenuity of nature in overcoming extreme challenges.
(Adapted from: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/animal-facts/desert-animals.htm)
