dromedarius

Camelus dromedarius, commonly known as the dromedary or Arabian camel, is a large mammal in the family Camelidae. It is the one-humped member of true camels and is native to arid regions of the Middle East, North Africa, and the Horn of Africa. The species has been domesticated for thousands of years and is now found in desert and semi-arid regions around the world.

Dromedaries are typically 1.8 to 2.2 meters tall at the shoulder and weigh about 400 to 600 kilograms. The single hump on their back stores fatty tissue, which can be metabolized for energy and water when food and water are scarce. They have long eyelashes, sealable nostrils, and a thick coat that helps insulate against heat and sand. Their feet are well-suited for walking on sandy surfaces.

Adaptations to dry environments include the ability to go long periods without free water and to drink large quantities when water becomes available. They can tolerate high body temperatures and reduce perspiration to conserve water. Their diet consists of dry grasses, leaves, and thorny shrubs, and they can process low-quality forage more efficiently than many other large herbivores.

Behaviourally, dromedaries are social animals that typically form herds. Reproduction involves a gestation period of about 13 to 14 months, usually producing a single calf. Calves are nurtured for several months before weaning.

Humans have exploited dromedaries for transportation, load carrying, milk, and meat. Their endurance, heat tolerance, and ability to thrive in harsh desert conditions have made them integral to many pastoralist and trading communities.