close-up of a hippopotamus skin texture revealing intricate patterns and earthy tones in a natural habitat at midday

hippopotamus skin texture wildlife animal close patterns earthy tones adaptation african river mammals nature natural biodiversity flora fauna behavior environment zoology observation aquatic large animals conservation species africa riverbank mud habitat survival daytime coloration details anatomy focus kingdom reptile wilderness ecosystems wetlands history view earth environmental muscular build herbivores hippo protection essential features physiology close-up revealing intricate midday thick textured showcases unique highlighting animal#39aph39#s wild daylight