Okapids are ruminants, meaning they ferment plant matter in a multi-chambered stomach. This allows them to digest tough leaves and bark. Their diet includes hundreds of plant species. Many of these plants are toxic to other animals. Specialized digestion allows them exclusive access to food sources. This reduces competition with other herbivores.
This specialization helps okapids survive in nutrient-poor forests. It highlights coevolution between animals and plants.
The digestive system shows how survival often depends on internal adaptations. Diet flexibility equals ecological success.
Okapids can safely eat plants poisonous to cattle.
National Geographic (nationalgeographic.com)