Elephants, those majestic terrestrial giants, have captivated scientists and enthusiasts alike due to their biological complexity, their crucial role in the ecosystems they inhabit, and their way of life.
Their highly developed social behavior and intricate communication reflect a social intelligence that rivals many other species, astonishing humans.
Characteristics and Biology of Elephants
These herbivorous mammals stand out for their large size, long trunk, and huge ears. They organize into herds of about 20 members, and the largest individuals can reach almost 4 meters in height and weigh over 6,000 kilograms.
Elephants live around 70 years and have the longest gestation period of all animals: 22 months. At birth, calves already weigh over 100 kilograms.
Intelligence and Behavior
Due to their large size, elephants also have a very large brain, which gives them remarkable intelligence. Behaviors associated with them include mourning a loss, association with other members, tool use, adoption, play, and even self-recognition.
Function of Ears and Trunk
The ears of elephants act as a thermostat, helping them withstand the intense heat of the areas where they live. Their trunk, an extremely developed nose, also functions as a long arm.
Their tusks are used to forage for food and water, but they are also the reason why this species is endangered, as humans hunt them for the value of ivory.
Preserving elephants is essential not only for their ecological importance but also for the richness of their behavior and their contribution to biodiversity.
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