How is the water buffalo's coat generally described in contrast to many other large mammals?
Answer
The coat tends to be sparse rather than thick.
The exterior covering, or coat, of the water buffalo is described as being relatively sparse when compared to the thick pelts often found on other large mammals. This characteristic is relevant because it links directly to their thermoregulation needs. A thick coat would further inhibit heat dissipation, especially given their limited capacity for cooling via sweating. The sparse nature of the coat means that the animal must rely heavily on external factors, such as water and mud, to manage its body temperature effectively, as the coat itself does not provide significant insulation or evaporative cooling benefits.
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