1. Direct Cleaning:
* Drinking and Bathing: Many animals, especially mammals, drink water and use it to wash themselves. This helps remove dirt, debris, and parasites from their fur or skin.
* Licking: Cats, dogs, and other animals lick their bodies to clean themselves. This helps distribute saliva, which can have cleaning and antibacterial properties.
2. Indirect Cleaning:
* Sweat and Saliva: Some animals sweat or produce saliva that helps keep their skin or fur clean.
* Water-Based Habitats: Aquatic animals like fish, amphibians, and some invertebrates rely on water for cleaning. Water currents can help remove debris and parasites.
3. Specialized Adaptations:
* Birds: Many bird species use water for bathing and preening. They also use dust baths to remove parasites.
* Reptiles: Some reptiles, like crocodiles and alligators, wallow in water to clean themselves.
Exceptions:
* Desert Animals: Animals living in arid environments may use sand or dust to clean themselves instead of water.
* Insects: Some insects use their legs or antennae to clean themselves.
Overall:
While water is not the only way animals stay clean, it is a crucial component for many species. Water helps remove dirt, parasites, and pathogens, keeping animals healthy and reducing the risk of infections.