Camelid

Camelids are a family of hoofed mammals in the order Artiodactyla, suborder Tylopoda. They include six living species divided into Old World camels and New World camelids. The Old World group comprises the dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) with one hump and the Bactrian camel (Camelus bactrianus) with two humps. The New World group includes the domesticated llama (Lama glama) and alpaca (Vicugna pacos), as well as the wild guanaco (Lama guanicoe) and vicuña (Vicugna vicugna).

Camelids are native to diverse regions. Camels inhabit arid and semi-arid areas of Asia and Africa, while llamas, alpacas, guanacos, and vicuñas are associated with the high Andes and adjacent ecosystems in the Americas. They are herbivores with a three-chambered stomach adapted for efficient digestion of fibrous forage. They tend to be well adapted to harsh environments, with tolerance for heat and cold, efficient water use, and durable feet suited to rugged terrain.

Behaviorally, camelids are social animals that commonly form herds. In domesticated settings, they have long been valued for their roles as pack animals, sources of fiber, milk, and meat. Llamas are often used as pack animals and guardians, while alpacas are bred primarily for their fleece. Wild vicuñas and guanacos have historically provided fiber and are the focus of conservation and sustainable management efforts.

Conservation status varies by species and region. Wild vicuñas and guanacos are subject to protections and ongoing management programs, reflecting broader aims to balance ecological preservation with human use of camelids.