What property do the yak's broad, tough hooves provide on mountain surfaces?
Answer
Excellent traction on slippery surfaces like ice and loose scree
The feet of the yak are specialized components that complement its powerful, low-slung build for high-altitude navigation. The hooves are described as being broad and tough. This morphology is specifically adapted to enhance purchase and grip on surfaces that pose significant challenges to other ungulates. Specifically, these specialized hooves grant the animal excellent traction, which is vital for stability when stepping on slippery surfaces such as ice patches or loose, shifting scree found on steep mountain slopes.
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