Acinonyx

Acinonyx is a genus of cats in the family Felidae. It contains the cheetah, Acinonyx jubatus, as its sole living species, and several extinct species known from fossil remains. The living cheetah is the most famous member of this genus, noted for its speed and distinctive coat markings. The genus also includes extinct relatives such as Acinonyx pardinensis, the giant cheetah of Pliocene to early Pleistocene Europe, and other fossil species described from Africa, Europe, and Asia.

Taxonomy and fossil record: The genus includes extinct relatives such as Acinonyx pardinensis, the giant cheetah of Pliocene to early Pleistocene Europe, and other fossil species described from Africa, Europe, and Asia.

Description and adaptations: Cheetahs have slender bodies, long legs, a small head, and non-retractable claws. They possess large nasal passages and a powerful heart to support high-speed chases; their coat has spots and tear-like facial marks. Their hunting style is pursuit predation; they rely on speed over short distances, typically targeting gazelles, impalas, and other medium-sized antelope.

Distribution and habitat: The cheetah's historic range included much of Africa and parts of Asia; today it is found mainly in sub-Saharan Africa with small populations in Iran. They favor open savannas and grasslands where visibility is high.

Behavior and reproduction: Cheetahs are mostly solitary, with males forming coalitions; females are solitary and raise litters alone. They have a relatively short big-cat gestation and cub rearing.

Conservation: The species and genus face threats such as habitat loss, prey depletion, and conflict with humans. The cheetah is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN; several populations are small and isolated. Conservation measures include protected areas, corridor creation, anti-poaching, community-based programs, and captive breeding programs.