What term describes animals that live in trees, such as an orangutan?

Animals that live in trees are referred to as arboreal. This term comes from the Latin word "arbor," which means tree. Arboreal animals have physical adaptations that allow them to thrive in a tree-dwelling environment, including strong limbs for climbing, prehensile tails for grasping branches, and excellent balance.

Orangutans are a prime example of arboreal animals, as they primarily inhabit the treetops of rainforests. Their specialized limbs and dexterous hands enable them to navigate their arboreal habitat efficiently, gathering food and building nests in the trees.

In contrast, the other terms refer to different types of habitats. Terrestrial describes land-dwelling animals, aquatic refers to those living in water, and fossorial pertains to animals that burrow underground. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the specific adaptations and lifestyles associated with different animal classifications.