Gazella

Gazella is a genus of ungulates in the family Bovidae, commonly known as gazelles. They are slender, fast antelopes adapted to open, arid and semi-arid habitats across parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Members of Gazella typically have a light tan to gray coat, pale underparts, long legs, and, in many species, horns that curve backward in both males and females. Diet consists mainly of grasses, herbs, and shrubs; some populations can obtain most water from forage.

Taxonomy: Gazella is the traditional name for a group of gazelles. In modern classifications, several species once placed in Gazella have been reassigned to other genera such as Eudorcas and Nanger, reflecting revised understanding of their relationships. Nevertheless, several familiar forms remain in Gazella in many field guides.

Species: Notable species historically placed in Gazella include the dorcas gazelle (Gazella dorcas), Bennett's gazelle (Gazella bennettii), and the goitered gazelle (Gazella subgutturosa). These species exhibit varying degrees of sexually dimorphic horns (often present in both sexes) and social organization, ranging from solitary individuals to mixed herds.

Conservation: Gazella species face threats from habitat loss, hunting, and competition with livestock. Several taxa are considered threatened or endangered in regional assessments, and conservation programs aim to protect habitats, reduce poaching, and support sustainable water and grazing resources.