Tropical+Grassland+Animal+Adaptations

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Tropical grasslands and savannas contain many different species of animals and plants. Due to the increased exposure, bad weather, and minimal places to hide from predators, animals have developed helpful traits to increase their chances of survival.(C1)

1. Camouflage: Animals use camouflage to protect themselves from predators or when they are hunting. In the African savanna, zebras, who live in herds, are able to confuse a lion (predator) because their striped patterns make it hard for the lion to pick out one zebra.(C2) Cheetahs also use their spotted fur to blend into the grass when they are hunting. (C3)



2. Speed: In the savanna, speed is an important strategy for hunting prey or escaping from predators. (C4) Therefore, many of the animals in the savanna have adapted and now possess longer legs, such as antelopes or gazelles, in order to move swiftly and for longer distances. Fires caused by lightning are also common during the dry season of the savanna, so being able to move in a quick manner is an important adaptation to have when escaping these fires as well. (C5)

(C6)

3. Migration: Animals in the savanna have to migrate throughout the year when there's a drought and to find food so that they can survive. The animals constantly follow the rain and to allow for this constant,quick movement, they need strong legs. Animals such as elephants and bison are able to do this because of their size and animals like gazelles and antelopes are able to migrate quickly because of their speed. (C7)



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