How do camels store water in their stomachs?

Camels do not store water in their stomachs. While they are famously known for their ability to survive in arid environments, their water storage strategy is quite different. Here's how they actually do it:

* Red Blood Cells: Camels have oval-shaped red blood cells that can absorb and retain water more efficiently than the round red blood cells of most mammals. This allows them to hold onto a higher percentage of water in their bloodstream.

* Fat Storage: Camels store a significant amount of fat in their humps, which can be metabolized to provide water. This fat is broken down into water and energy, giving the camel a source of hydration.

* Efficient Kidney Function: Camels have very efficient kidneys that can concentrate their urine, minimizing water loss. This allows them to survive on very little water for extended periods.

* Body Temperature Regulation: Camels can tolerate a wider range of body temperatures than most mammals. This reduces their need to sweat and lose water.

The Myth of Water Storage: The myth that camels store water in their stomachs likely arose from the fact that they can drink large amounts of water at once. However, they do not store it in their stomachs. They simply drink quickly to replenish their body fluids and then store water more efficiently through the mechanisms listed above.