DID you know that sloths sleep up to 15 hours a day? And even when they are awake, they barely move at all and when they do, they are mind-numbingly slow.
But is it true that sloths move so slowly that algae actually grow on them?
Verdict:
TRUE
It is true! Sloths are so incredibly sluggish, algae actually grow on their fur.
Sloths are known for their extremely slow movements, which are primarily due to their low metabolic rate and specialised physiology.
A low metabolic rate means sloths can survive on relatively little food; it takes days for them to process what other animals can digest in a matter of hours.
Their slow movement and the constant presence of moisture in their fur create an ideal environment for algae to grow.
The symbiotic relationship between sloths and algae is beneficial for both parties. The algae receive sunlight, which they require for photosynthesis, while the sloths receive additional camouflage and some nutrients from the algae.
The fur of sloths provides a good habitat for algae because it is coarse and grooved, allowing the algae to thrive and cling to it.
The algae give the sloths a greenish tinge, which acts as camouflage and helps them blend in with surrounding vegetation.
Sloths spend most of their time hanging upside down from tree branches. About once every week, they descend to go to the bathroom, slowly moving about by digging their front claws into the dirt and dragging their bodies.
It's worth noting that not all sloths have algae on their fur, as it depends on factors such as their habitat, local environmental conditions and individual grooming behaviour.
However, it is a well-known phenomenon associated with sloths and is often seen as a characteristic feature of their unique lifestyle.
References:
1. https://www.bbc.com/future/
2. https://www.worldwildlife.org/
3. https://www.youtube.com/
4. https://kids.
