Final answer:
The least advantageous adaptation to a polar bear living in a cold, icy ecosystem is dark coloration.
Step-by-step explanation:
The adaptation that would be the least advantageous to a polar bear living in a cold, icy ecosystem is dark coloration. Polar bears have a white or slightly yellowish fur that helps them blend in with their snowy surroundings, making it easier for them to hunt and avoid predators. Dark coloration would make them more visible, therefore reducing their chances of survival. On the other hand, long, sharp claws would be advantageous for a polar bear to dig through ice and catch prey, thick layers of fat help them stay warm in the cold environment, and the ability to hibernate during the coldest parts of the year would conserve energy and reduce the need to hunt.
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