equids

Equids are members of the family Equidae within the order Perissodactyla. They are hoofed, odd-toed ungulates adapted for running and include horses, donkeys, and zebras. All living equids belong to the genus Equus, the only surviving genus in the family.

Taxonomy and species: The genus Equus comprises several living species, including the domestic horse (Equus caballus), the African wild ass (Equus africanus) with the domestic donkey often classified as E. a. asinus, the plains zebra (Equus quagga), the mountain zebra (Equus zebra), and Grevy’s zebra (Equus grevyi). The wild horse (Equus ferus) includes Przewalski’s horse (Equus ferus przewalskii) as a subspecies. Zebras are known for their distinctive coat patterns, which vary among species and populations.

Anatomy and adaptations: Equids have a single functional toe on each foot, with a hard hoof, and are built for speed and endurance. They are herbivores that rely on hindgut fermentation to digest fibrous plant material. Their teeth are adapted for grazing, with structures that wear progressively as they chew tough forage. The digestive and skeletal systems support efficient, long-distance travel in open habitats.

Ecology and behavior: They inhabit a range of environments across Africa, Eurasia, and human-managed landscapes worldwide. Socially, many species form groups with hierarchical structures, and they typically graze on grasses or browse available vegetation. Predation pressure and water availability shape their ranging and activity patterns.

Domestication and conservation: Horses and donkeys have been domesticated for transportation, work, and companionship for millennia. Zebras are generally not domesticated. Wild equids face threats from habitat loss, hunting, and hybridization; several species are endangered. Conservation and reintroduction programs aim to preserve genetic diversity and ecological roles.