Types of Elephants
There are currently three distinct species of elephants recognized today. These include the African Savanna Elephant (Loxodonta africana), the smaller African Forest Elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis), and the Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus). Each species is adapted to its own habitat, ranging from the open savannas of Africa to the dense forests of central and West Africa, and the varied ecosystems of the Asian continent.
Did you know that?
The longest tusk reached up to 11.5 feet in length.
African Bush Elephant
Scientific Name: Loxodonta africana
The African bush elephant (also called the African savanna elephant) is one of the two extant African elephant species. It is the largest land animal on Earth, capable of reaching 13 feet high and weighing nearly 10.4 tons.
Both male and female African bush elephants have two thick, ivory tusks that are curved reaching incredible lengths. They are found in various habitats across sub-Saharan Africa, except for Central Africa’s dense tropical forest.
African Forest Elephant
Scientific Name: Loxodonta cyclotis
The African forest elephant is another one of the two living species of African elephant. It is native to the humid tropical forests of West and Central Africa and is smaller than its relative, the African bush elephant. This species of elephant typically grows up to 7 feet high.
The African forest elephant has rounded, fanned ears and down-pointing, straight tusks, which are thinner and straighter than those of the savanna elephants. Both African species are threatened by poaching and habitat loss, with the African forest elephant is currently classified as Critically Endangered.
Critcally Endangered
Ivory is a hard, white material derived from the tusks and teeth of animals, particularly elephants. It has been valued historically for carving and crafting decorative and functional objects. However, it has caused poaching of elephants.
Asian Elephant
Scientific Name: Elephas maximus
Asian elephants are a distinct species of elephants found mainly in Southeast Asia, including India, Nepal, and parts of Indonesia. Smaller than their African counterparts, they have smaller ears and a convex back. Typically, only male Asian elephants possess tusks, while females have much smaller tusks known as tushes. These elephants inhabit a variety of environments, ranging from grasslands to different types of forests.
Highly social creatures, Asian elephants live in matriarchal groups comprising the matriarch, her female offspring, and their young. Adult males often lead solitary lives or form temporary groups.