5.5.2 Adaptations of Camels

Match the following keywords to their meanings:

• salt water

• dromedary

• a spot in a desert where water is found

• brine

• grip

• traction

• group of camels

• oasis

• another name for Arabian camel

• caravan

Who is JLo?

• 
• no-one important

• 
• 

Adaptation: changes in the body to fit a

Why do camels have thick pads on their feet and chest?

• To add grip (traction) as they walk

• So they don't get burnt on the hot sand

• so their feet are soft

• To protect their heart from predators

What adaptations do camels have in and around their eyes?

• 
• 
• 
• 

A camel's hump is filled with ​ (a)   . The cells can break down this into ​ (b)   when it is needed.

• fat
• water
• sugar
• protein
• fiber
• liquid

Which of these adaptations do camels have?

• thick lips to eat twigs and spiky plants

• ability to drink salty water (brine)

• fur to insulate in cold temperatures

• ability to regulate their body temperature (keep their temperature the same)

• all of the above

Match the following adaptations to their advantages for the camel.

• to keep warm at night

• long legs

• to keep body away from hot sand

• thick lips

• to eat sharp thorns, twigs and bones

• long eyelashes

• to rest on hot sand without being burnt

• pad on chest

• to keep sand out of eyes

• fur

Can you adapt?

• yes

• no

Answer explanation

Individuals cannot adapt - they can't change their characteristics. However, a species can adapt over time.