Three-toed sloth
The Three-toed sloth (Bradypus variegatus) is the slowest mammal in the rainforest. It is the number of claws found on the front legs that distinguishes the two sloth families – Megalonychidae with two and Bradypodidae with three. These mammals are relatives of anteaters and armadillos. Three-toed sloths eat only leaves. Sloths spend most of their time hanging from trees. They have difficulty standing and are unable to walk like most mammals. On the ground, they move by dragging themselves with their front limbs. They are good swimmers, with an overarm stoke. Sloths grow to be approximately 2 feet (.6m) long and weigh 7-9 pounds (3-4 kg). They are non-aggressive and harmless but will slash with their long claws to defend themselves. They have poorly developed senses of sight and hearing, finding food by use of smell and touch.

Floss silk tree
At the Dallas World Aquarium, the Floss silk tree, sometimes called the “Monkey don’t climb” tree (Chorisa speciosa) is one food source for the sloth. During WWII, the fibers which surround the seeds of the Floss silk tree were used to stuff life vests. Large, pink, hibiscus-like flowers bloom in late autumn, just before the tree goes dormant.

Rubber tree
The large, coarse leaves of the more common Rubber tree (Ficus elastica) are also included in the diet of the Three-toed sloth. One of the oldest plants used as houseplants, it can grow to 40-50 feet (12-15 m) in height.

Shaving brush tree
The Shaving brush tree (Pseudobombax) is deciduous and has photosynthetic bark which stores (swells) water in case of drought. The flowers resemble shaving brushes.