Editing Elephant seal (section)

== Adaptations ==
Elephant seals have large circular eyes that have more [[Rods and cones|rods]] than cones to help them see in low light conditions when they are diving.<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" /> These seals also possess a structure called the [[tapetum lucidum]], which helps their vision by having light reflected back to the retina to allow more chances for [[Photoreceptor cell|photoreceptors]] to detect light.<ref name=":1" />

Their body is covered in blubber, which helps them keep warm and reduce drag while they are swimming.<ref name=":2" /> The shape of their body also helps them maneuver well in the water, but limits their movement on land.<ref name=":2" /> Also, elephant seals have the ability to fast for long periods of time while breeding or molting.<ref name=":2" /> The turbinate process, another unique [[adaptation]], is very beneficial when these seals are fasting, breeding, molting, or hauling out.<ref name=":2" />{{Explain|date=January 2023|reason=The turbinate process is not explained, this seems to assume expert knowledge}} This unique nasal structure recycles moisture when they breathe and helps prevent water loss.<ref name=":2" />

Elephant seals have external whiskers called ''vibrissae'' to help them locate prey and navigate their environment.<ref name=":2" /> The vibrissae are connected to blood vessels, nerves, and muscles making them an important sensing tool.<ref name=":1" />

Due to evolutionary changes, their ear has been modified to work extremely well underwater.<ref name=":1" /> The structure of the inner ear helps amplify incoming sounds, and allows these seals to have good directional hearing due to the isolation of the inner ear.<ref name=":1" /> In addition to these adaptations, tissues in the ear canal allow the pressure in the ear to be adjusted while these seals perform their deep dives.<ref name=":1" />