Name this very slow-moving animal of South America that hangs upside down by strong curved claws and often has algae in its hair.

• A. Armadillo
• B. Sloth
• C. Monkey
• D. Anteater

Answer: (B)

Recognizing animals by distinctive traits and adaptations helps you match clues to the right species. The clues describe an animal that moves very slowly, hangs from tree branches using strong curved claws, and often has algae growing in its hair. Those traits belong to the sloth. Sloths deliberately move slowly to conserve energy because they have a low metabolism, and their long curved claws let them grip branches securely while hanging. The fur in sloths often hosts algae, which can give their coat a greenish tint and helps camouflage them in the treetop environment. Armadillos are armored and ground-dwellers, not known for hanging upside down or algae in their fur. Monkeys are typically active climbers and fast movers, not slow and hanging in the way described. Anteaters have long snouts and specialize in eating ants and termites, not hanging upside down through tree life.