What is adaptation? Mention the adaptations found in the following mammals.

a) Whale b) Polar bear

c) Kangaroo d) Herbivorous mammals.

Adaptation is defined as the adjustment of an organism to its surroundings or environment in order to survive and stay safe.

a) Whale- Whales need to conserve their body heat in cold waters. Their body is surrounded by thick layer of fat called blubber just under the skin that helps to keep them warm. Whale have flippers that help them to swim properly in water.

b) Polar bear- The small and round ears help to maintain body heat and do now allow the cold water to enter the ear. They also dig dens to protect themselves from cold winds.

c) Kangaroo- Kangaroos have large ears which help to keep them cool in the hot and arid environment where they are usually found. The ears also help in sensing danger.

d) Herbivorous animal- Herbivores cannot produce cellulose digesting enzymes. So, they lodge cellulase producing bacteria in their alimentary tract which aids plant digestion and offer them food and shelter in return. They have special sharp straight edged teeth called incisors which help them to eat plants or grasses.