Category(s)
The African Elephant is a majestic and iconic species native to various habitats across Africa, including savannas, forests, and deserts. It's recognized for its immense size, large ears that help regulate body temperature, and long tusks, which are actually elongated incisors. African Elephants are social animals, living in complex matriarchal family groups.
Classification:
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Mammalia
- Order: Proboscidea
- Family: Elephantidae
- Genus: Loxodonta
There are two recognized species within the genus Loxodonta:
- African Bush Elephant (Loxodonta africana): The larger of the two species, primarily found in savannas.
- African Forest Elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis): Smaller and more adapted to the dense forests of central and west Africa.
These magnificent creatures play a critical role in their ecosystems by modifying their habitats, dispersing seeds, and creating water holes used by other species. However, they face significant threats from habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching for their ivory tusks.
