Orangutan Adaptations

Orangutans, iconic Jungle inhabitants, are among the most endangered species due to habitat loss. Adapted to a warmer, humid, heavily forested environment, in 100 years, their current behavioral and physical traits will either be unhelpful, or will endanger their lives more than it already is. This is a result of, as previously said, deforestation and forest fires resulting in a loss of habitat. The impact of deforestation and exposure to the sun may result in increased melanin production, resulting in darker skin, to provide better protection against increased UV radiation. Other adaptations may include a rougher or more textured skin, improving heat dissipation and cooling efficiency. Urgent action is required to mitigate the effects of climate change and preserve the natural habitat essential for the survival of Orangutans.