Camels, with their distinctive humps, are iconic figures of arid landscapes, often sparking curiosity about what these prominent features hold. These remarkable animals are well-suited to extreme desert conditions. Their humps are a testament to their unique adaptations for survival in environments where resources are scarce.
Debunking the Myth
A common misconception suggests that camels store water within their humps. This widespread belief is inaccurate. Instead, camels primarily store water in their bloodstream and other body tissues. Their oval-shaped red blood cells, unlike the circular cells of most mammals, facilitate the flow of blood during dehydration and allow them to withstand significant changes in osmotic pressure when rehydrating. Camels can drink large volumes of water, up to 30-40 gallons (113-150 liters) in one sitting, which is then distributed throughout their bodies, not concentrated in their humps.
The Hump’s True Contents
The humps of a camel are primarily composed of fatty tissue. This fatty deposit can be substantial. When a camel utilizes this stored fat, the hump visibly decreases in size and may even droop. Once the camel has access to sufficient food and rest, the hump will regain its plump, upright appearance.
Why the Hump Stores Fat
Storing fat in the hump offers several physiological advantages for camels. This localized fat serves as a concentrated energy reserve, allowing camels to endure extended periods without food. When this fat is metabolized, it produces metabolic water, which contributes to the camel’s hydration. Beyond energy, the concentrated fat storage aids in thermoregulation. By keeping most of their fat in one area, camels minimize insulation across the rest of their body, which helps them dissipate heat more effectively in hot desert climates.
Other Desert Adaptations
Camels possess a suite of other adaptations that enable their survival in harsh desert environments. Their kidneys produce concentrated urine and they excrete very dry feces, both minimizing water loss. Specialized nostrils close tightly, and long eyelashes with a transparent third eyelid shield their eyes from blowing sand. Their mouths are lined with tough, leathery papillae, allowing them to consume thorny desert plants without injury. Their thick fur provides insulation, protecting them from both intense heat and cold.