<P> Three - toed sloths are arboreal ( tree - dwelling ) , with a body adapted to hang by their limbs . They live high in the canopy , but descend once a week to defecate on the forest floor . Their long , coarse fur often appears greenish , not due to pigment , but to algae growing on it . Sloths ' greenish color and their sluggish habits provide an effective camouflage ; hanging quietly , sloths resemble a bundle of leaves . Large , curved claws help sloths to keep a strong grip on tree branches . </P>
<P> Three - toed sloths are arboreal ( tree - dwelling ) , with a body adapted to hang by their limbs . They live high in the canopy , but descend once a week to defecate on the forest floor . Their long , coarse fur often appears greenish , not due to pigment , but to algae growing on it . Sloths ' greenish color and their sluggish habits provide an effective camouflage ; hanging quietly , sloths resemble a bundle of leaves . Large , curved claws help sloths to keep a strong grip on tree branches . </P>
when algae lives on a sloth it is considered
when algae lives on a sloth it is considered
camouflage
camouflage