What primary tissue composes the Zebu's distinctive hump structure?
Answer
Fatty tissue
The prominent, muscular hump located above the shoulders of the Zebu is fundamentally composed of fatty tissue. This structural element is not merely decorative; it functions as a crucial energy reserve for the animal. This reserve capacity mirrors the function seen in camels, enabling the Zebu to sustain itself during periods where food sources might be scarce or unavailable. Furthermore, the physical state of this hump serves as an immediate visual indicator of the animal's nutritional status. A Zebu in good condition will exhibit a firm and pronounced hump, reflecting abundant stored energy, while an animal suffering from nutritional stress will show a softer or diminished hump as those reserves are utilized.
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