| Camelids are categorized in the order of Artiodactyla. The other Artiodactyla suborders are Hippos, Peccaries and Pigs, while those that come under the diverse suborder category are Antelopes, Goats, Cattle and several others. These are all ungulates or animals with hooves.
Camelids are huge animals with long legs and slender necks and are completely herbivorous, feeding only on plants and other vegetation. The Camelids are different to ruminants - animals that chew the cud. Unlike ruminants their digestive tract is three chambered; their upper lips are split in two parts and each part is mobile separately; in the upper jaw, they have a single incisor; and have elliptical red blood cells which are exclusive to mammals. Camelids’ legs look longer than they are because they do not have tensor skin muscles in between their thighs and bodies. Instead of hooves the Camelids have feet with two toes and toe nails. The pads under their feet are used to grip the ground if it is steep when they walk on rough terrain.
The new world Camelids are Vicunas, Guanacos, Alpacas and Llamas. These Camelids were all originally from Central America. These Camelids belong to the Dromedary and Bactrian Camel family. The Llamas normally move around in packs and are kept as trekking companions. As all Camelids prefer to be in herds they should not be maintained in isolation. |
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