Here's how they do it:
* Storing Water: Camels can store a significant amount of water in their blood and tissues. Their red blood cells are oval-shaped, allowing for more efficient water retention.
* Conserving Water: Camels have a highly efficient kidney system, which helps them reabsorb water from their urine. They also have a special mechanism that allows them to reduce sweating, preventing water loss.
* Tolerance for Dehydration: Camels can tolerate a much higher level of dehydration than most other mammals. Their body temperature can fluctuate significantly, which helps them conserve water.
It's important to remember that camels still need to drink water eventually! While they can go long stretches without drinking, they will eventually need to replenish their water supply. They typically drink large amounts of water when available.
So, while camels are incredible at surviving in arid environments, they still need water to live. Their adaptations are impressive, but they don't make them truly "water-independent."