In addition to their size, these mammals are distinguished by their intelligence and unique ability to show affection.
Elephants, with their long trunks and large tusks, are the largest land animals in existence. Known for their gentle temperament, they win the hearts and admiration of many, especially for their intelligence, which has been studied for centuries and still provides valuable information on animal behavior today.
Next, check out 7 interesting facts about elephants!
1. There are three species
There are currently three species of the recognized elephants are: the African savannah elephant (African loxodonta), the African forest elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis) and the Asian elephant (Maximum elephant). They are all part of the order Proboscidea (order of placental mammals) and the family Elephantids. What differs between them are their physical appearances, while African elephants are larger and have greyish skin, Asian elephants are covered with a layer of reddish-brown fur and have smaller ears.
2. His fangs are teeth
Elephant tusks, also called “ivories”, are actually their teeth. They generally begin to grow after 2 years of age and continue to grow throughout the animal’s life. Composed of dentine, bone, cementum and enamel, like other teeth, they can reach up to 350 cm in length and are constantly targeted by hunters, which has changed the genetics of the animals.
A study published in the scientific journal says so Science, Because they are so hunted, new generations of African elephants are being born without tusks. The article finds that the civil war in Mozambique between 1977 and 1992 – largely financed by hunting – caused a 33% increase in the births of females without prey. The data was obtained from images of Gorongosa National Park, taken before the conflict.
3. You have thick skin
It is well known that elephants have naturally thick and flaky skin, but few know why. A study published in the journal Communication of nature attributes this physical aspect to the survival of the animal.
Research indicates that the cracks are the result of stress suffered by the skin during the animal’s movements and similar to ichthyosis that affects humans (a disease that leaves the skin dry to the point of peeling). While this is worrying in humans, in elephants it is an evolutionary advantage, since, according to the study, it provides the animal with the means to stay cool, thanks to the layer of papillae located under the thick skin.
4. Their trunks are muscular
The elephant’s trunk is the fusion of the nose and upper lip. It performs a variety of functions, such as breathing, smelling, touching objects, gathering food, drinking water and even communicating. All of this is possible only thanks to the approximately 40,000 muscles that make up this structure, ensuring extraordinary strength and great precision.
5. They find water from miles away
Thanks to their extremely acute sense of smell, with about five times more smell-related genes than humans, as published by National geographicElephants can detect water from miles away. This ability is vital, especially in arid regions such as savannas and deserts where water is scarce.
In conditions like these, it is common for elephants to bathe in mud, and this practice goes beyond simple joke. They do this to protect themselves from ultraviolet rays, as the mud trapped in their skin helps keep the animals hydrated and free of parasites. This bath also regulates their body temperature, which is extremely beneficial since these mammals do not sweat.
6. They have the largest brains among earthlings
The brain of an adult elephant can weigh between 4 and 5 kg, which contributes to its high cognitive and emotional capacity. They are able to recognize friends, solve problems, use tools and even show empathy, especially with other elephants. It is no wonder that they are considered one of the most intelligent animals in the world.
7. Your pregnancy is one of the longest known
Females have the longest gestation period among males. mammalslasting about 22 months. This allows for the correct development of the calf, which is born with a weight of between 90 and 120 kg and is already relatively well developed. It also ensures that the calf has a good chance of survival immediately after birth, given the physical and neurological complexity of elephants.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
