Bactrian camel

Bactrian Camel (Camelus bactrianus) is a large, even-toed ungulate native to the steppes of Central Asia. It is one of the two existing species of camel, the other being the dromedary or Arabian camel. The Bactrian camel is distinguished by its two humps, as opposed to the single hump of its cousin.

Characteristics

The Bactrian camel is a robust and hardy animal, capable of withstanding the harsh climates of the Central Asian steppes. It has a thick coat of hair, which it sheds in the warmer months, and a tough hide that protects it from the elements. The camel's two humps, which store fat, allow it to go for long periods without food or water.

Habitat and Distribution

The Bactrian camel is native to the steppes of Central Asia, including parts of China, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan. It is well adapted to the harsh desert conditions of this region, with its ability to withstand extreme temperatures and to go for long periods without water.

Diet

The Bactrian camel is a herbivore, feeding on a variety of plants in its desert habitat. It is also known to eat snow in the winter months as a source of water.

Conservation Status

The wild Bactrian camel is considered critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with a population estimated at less than 1,000 individuals. The primary threats to the species are habitat loss due to mining and industrial development, and hunting for its meat and hide.

Domestication

The Bactrian camel has been domesticated for thousands of years and is used for transportation, milk, and meat by the people of Central Asia. The domesticated Bactrian camel is more numerous and has a wider distribution than its wild counterpart.

See Also

• Camel
• Dromedary
• Camelid
• Central Asia