What advantage do the slightly longer legs of the Wood Bison provide in their northern ranges?
Answer
Aids movement across wetland and muskeg terrain
The subtle differences in limb proportion between the Wood Bison and the Plains Bison reflect evolutionary adaptation to specific environmental pressures. The Wood Bison possesses generally longer legs compared to its southern relative. This morphological trait is a direct adaptation enabling more effective navigation through the challenging, soft ground conditions characteristic of their boreal forest and parkland ranges, specifically the wetland and muskeg areas. The longer limbs help distribute their massive weight and provide superior footing where shorter-legged ungulates might struggle to maintain purchase.
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