African elephant

African Elephant

The African elephant (Loxodonta) is a genus comprising two living elephant species, the African bush elephant (Loxodonta africana) and the smaller African forest elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis). They are the largest land animals on Earth and are found in various habitats across Africa.

Taxonomy and Evolution

The genus Loxodonta is part of the family Elephantidae, which also includes the Asian elephant and the extinct mammoths. The African elephant is divided into two species:

• African bush elephant (Loxodonta africana)
• African forest elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis)

The evolutionary history of elephants is complex, with many extinct relatives such as Palaeoloxodon and Mammuthus.

Physical Characteristics

African elephants are distinguished by their large ears, which help to dissipate heat, and their trunk, which is a versatile appendage used for feeding, drinking, and social interactions. The bush elephant is larger than the forest elephant, with males reaching up to 4 meters in height and weighing up to 7,000 kg.

Skull and Dentition

The skull of the African elephant is large and houses a complex set of teeth. Elephants have a unique dental structure with large molars that are replaced several times throughout their life. The molar of an adult African elephant is adapted for grinding tough vegetation.

Behavior and Ecology

African elephants are highly social animals, living in matriarchal family groups. They communicate through vocalizations, body language, and seismic signals. Elephants play a crucial role in their ecosystems by modifying habitats and dispersing seeds.

Conservation

Both species of African elephants are threatened by habitat loss and poaching for their ivory. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection, anti-poaching measures, and reducing human-elephant conflict.

Related Pages

• Asian elephant
• Mammoth
• Palaeoloxodon
• Elephantidae

Gallery

• African bush elephant

• African forest elephant

• Skulls of African bush and forest elephants

• Skeleton of an African bush elephant

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  Historical illustration of an African elephant

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  Palaeoloxodon namadicus

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  Asian elephant for comparison

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  Mammuthus trogontherii

• Phylogeny of Palaeoloxodon

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  Skull of an African bush elephant

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  Molar of an adult African elephant

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  African elephant

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  African elephant

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  African elephant

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