Caprinae

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Caprinae is a subfamily of the family Bovidae, and includes a diverse group of 34 species of medium to large-sized ungulates, including sheep, goats, muskoxen, and tahr. The domestic sheep and goat are both part of this subfamily.

Characteristics[edit | edit source]

Members of the Caprinae subfamily are characterized by their stocky bodies and adapted to steep terrains. They have large horns in both sexes, although larger in males, and a scent gland in the groin. They are ruminants, feeding on a diet of mainly grasses and herbs.

Taxonomy[edit | edit source]

The Caprinae subfamily is divided into several tribes, including:

  • Tribe Caprini: This tribe includes the domestic sheep and goat, as well as several wild species such as the mouflon and the urial.
  • Tribe Rupicaprini: This tribe includes the gorals and serows.
  • Tribe Ovibovini: This tribe includes the muskoxen.
  • Tribe Hemitragini: This tribe includes the tahr.

Distribution and habitat[edit | edit source]

Caprinae species are found in a wide range of habitats, from the cold tundra of the Arctic to the hot deserts of the Middle East. They are particularly adapted to live in mountainous areas.

Conservation[edit | edit source]

Several species of Caprinae are threatened or endangered due to habitat loss, hunting, and disease. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect these species and their habitats.

See also[edit | edit source]

Caprinae Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD