Okapids have relatively slow metabolisms. This reduces daily food requirements. Energy is conserved through calm behavior. Slow metabolism suits low-stress lifestyles. It also supports long lifespans. Efficiency matters in resource-limited forests.
This helps survival during food shortages. Less intake means less risk.
It shows metabolism as a survival tool. Slower can be better.
Okapids can survive on surprisingly modest food intake.
National Geographic (nationalgeographic.com)