Camelus

Camelus is a genus of large, even-toed ungulates in the family Camelidae. It contains the dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius), the Bactrian camel (Camelus bactrianus) with two humps, and, in some classifications, the wild Bactrian camel (Camelus ferus), treated as a separate species from its domesticated relatives. These animals are native to arid and semi-arid regions of Asia and the Middle East, with domesticated populations widely distributed across Africa, the Middle East, and Central and South Asia.

They are characterized by long legs, padded feet, and distinctive humps that store fat. The two-humped Bactrian camel has a thicker coat and a more robust build than the single-humped dromedary, adaptations suited to cold deserts and extreme temperature ranges. Camels possess long eyelashes and sealable nostrils to protect against sand, and they tolerate wide fluctuations in body temperature and water loss. They can drink significant amounts of water after dehydration and metabolize fat from their humps to endure food scarcity.

Domesticated camels are used as pack and riding animals, for transport across caravans, and as sources of milk, meat, and hides. Dromedaries are particularly valued for endurance and speed in hot desert environments, while Bactrian camels are favored for carrying heavy loads and handling cold conditions.

Taxonomy of Camelus varies by authority, with some classifications recognizing Camelus ferus as a separate species. The wild populations, including the wild Bactrian camel in Central Asia, are limited and face conservation challenges, while domesticated herds persist across many countries.