Hippopotamus anatomy

Hippopotamuses are large, semi-aquatic mammals with a massive, barrel-shaped body covered in thick, almost hairless skin. They have short legs with webbed toes that help them walk on soft riverbeds. Their large heads feature wide mouths capable of opening nearly 180 degrees, with prominent tusk-like teeth used for fighting and defense. Hippos have small ears and eyes positioned high on their heads, enabling them to see and hear while mostly submerged. Their muscular bodies are supported by a sturdy skeletal system, adapted for their semi-aquatic lifestyle, allowing them to spend much of the day submerged in water to stay cool.