What Unique Adaptation Allows Some Animals to Survive Without Food for Years?

Some animals, such as certain species of turtles and frogs, have developed extraordinary adaptations that allow them to survive without food for years. For instance, the wood frog can endure a state of suspended animation during freezing temperatures, essentially "shutting down" its metabolism. This process allows the frog to survive being frozen solid for months. When the temperatures rise again, the frog thaws and resumes its normal activities as if nothing had happened. Similarly, the desert tortoise can go for up to a year without eating by entering a state of dormancy during extremely dry conditions, relying on stored body fat and water. This remarkable ability to withstand prolonged periods without food is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of these species in harsh environments.