Question

An animal is taken to the polar region. Which of the following adaptive characteristics may help it to survive in the new environment?
A. Growth of thick and less hairy skin
B. Sharp beaks and strong claws
C. Growth of thick fur on its skin
D. Lightweight wings to fly

Answer 1

Hint: In order to survive in extreme conditions, every animal undergoes the process of evolutionary changes over time and acquires several useful adaptations. Depending on the external environment, adaptations are gained. Adaptations can be physical or behavioural. These adaptations help organisms to survive in extreme environments.

Complete step by step answer:
The polar environment is one of the extreme environments on earth. Poles namely, the South Pole and the North Pole lack warm summers. The average temperature is less than \[10^\circ C\].
The polar animals are well-adapted to the polar region environment. Several adaptations acquired by these organisms are listed below:
a. Presence of white fur because they lack melanin pigment.
b. They have a thick layer of fat and fur which act as insulation from cold.
c. Decreases the surface area to volume ratio to avoid unnecessary heat loss.
d. They have padded feet to hold a good grip on ice.
e. They have small ears and the body is completely covered with fur except for nose and feet.
So, the correct answer to the given question is C.

Note: Acclimatization varies from adaptations. Acclimatization is a temporary change acquired by an organism whereas, adaptations are permanent changes. Acclimatization occurs only for a short duration of time. On the other hand, adaptation occurs for a lifetime. Adaptation does not occur immediately. It takes many years for an organism to develop.