Alcelaphinae

Alcelaphinae is a subfamily of the Bovidae family that includes several African ungulates commonly known as hartebeests, wildebeests, and tsessebes. The subfamily comprises three living genera: Alcelaphus (hartebeests), Connochaetes (wildebeests), and Damaliscus (tsessebes and related species). Members are medium to large antelopes adapted to open grasslands, with slender bodies, long legs, and horns that vary in shape among taxa.

Geographic range and habitat: Alcelaphines are native to sub-Saharan Africa, occupying savannas, grasslands, and light woodlands. Wildebeests are particularly noted for large seasonal migrations across suitable plains, while hartebeests and tsessebes often inhabit more varied wooded or mosaic landscapes.

Ecology and behavior: They are predominantly grazers, feeding mainly on grasses. They form herds that range from small groups to very large migratory aggregations in wildebeests. Reproduction is often seasonal, with synchronized calving in some populations. Predation by large carnivores and disease influence their population dynamics, and they play a significant role in shaping vegetation structure and nutrient cycling in their ecosystems.

Taxonomy and relationships: In traditional classifications, Alcelaphinae is a subfamily within Bovidae, subdivided into the tribe Alcelaphini, which includes the three genera mentioned above. They are closely related to other African antelope lineages within Bovinae and related subfamilies.

Conservation: Conservation status varies by species; some populations are stable or increasing in protected areas, while others have declined due to habitat loss, hunting, and disease. Many species are listed by the IUCN with statuses ranging from least concern to near threatened, highlighting the importance of habitat protection and sustainable management.