Which morphological feature in Zebu aids significantly in thermoregulation?
Answer
Large, pendulous dewlap
The large, pendulous dewlap—the substantial fold of loose skin hanging from the neck and brisket area—is a critical biological adaptation present in Zebus specifically for managing body temperature. This expansive, loosely hanging skin maximizes the surface area exposed to air circulation, thereby facilitating efficient evaporative cooling and heat dissipation. This feature, along with having more sweat glands per square centimeter and a thinner overall hide compared to *B. taurus taurus*, allows *B. taurus indicus* to cope much more effectively with high environmental temperatures characteristic of tropical and subtropical climates.
Related Questions
What physical feature immediately identifies the Zebu cattle lineage?What is the accepted subspecies designation for Zebu within *Bos taurus*?What genetic reality supports classifying Zebu and European cattle as subspecies?Which extinct wild bovine lineage is the common ancestor of Zebu and European cattle?Where did the domestication event for Zebu (*B. taurus indicus*) primarily occur?Which morphological feature in Zebu aids significantly in thermoregulation?Which Zebu-derived composite breed is very common in the Americas?Within which taxonomic Family are Zebus grouped alongside goats and sheep?How does the skin structure of Zebu generally contrast with *Bos taurus taurus*?Which specific Zebu breed is noted for high milk yield compared to draft types?