Evolution of the Okapi

The okapi is a rainforest mammal whose natural habitat is located within the DRC. Because of deforestation and climate change, the okapi must adapt for survival. Some of the okapi's current physical characteristics include thick oily fur, a lengthy tongue, a short neck, stored body fat, and stripes. Ultimately, the okapi will change from a dark brown to a yellow color to blend in with its new desert-like habitat. Its fur will become thinner so its body temperature can be regulated. Its tongue will shrink and become tougher and thicker as it will have to eat cactus leaves. The okapi’s short neck will become even shorter because it will need to eat grass and cactus instead of tree leaves. The okapi will have less stored body fat to run briskly from predators. It will no longer have stripes, as they will not allow it to camouflage properly in the desert.