One species holds the title for the largest living land mammal: the African Bush Elephant, scientifically classified as Loxodonta africana. This gigantic herbivore is recognized for its sheer size, surpassing all other animals that walk the Earth. Its immense presence dominates the savanna landscapes of Africa where it roams.
Identifying the Largest Land Mammal
The African Bush Elephant is the undisputed heavyweight champion among all land species, a determination based primarily on mass. For many years, the African elephant was considered a single species with two subspecies. However, genetic and morphological evidence now supports the recognition of three distinct elephant species worldwide, which clarifies why Loxodonta africana is the largest.
The African genus Loxodonta includes the African Bush Elephant and the African Forest Elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis). The Bush Elephant, also known as the savanna elephant, is significantly larger and heavier than its forest-dwelling cousin. The Forest Elephant is noticeably smaller, occupying dense tropical rainforests.
The third species, the Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus), is dwarfed in comparison to its larger African relative. Its massive size is a direct result of its ecological niche on the open plains, which supports its larger frame.
Size and Physical Characteristics
The African Bush Elephant’s size is evidenced by its extraordinary physical measurements. A fully grown male bull can reach a shoulder height between 3.04 and 3.36 meters (10 to 11 feet). These males typically weigh an average of 5.2 to 6.9 metric tonnes (11,500 to 15,200 pounds).
The largest recorded specimen stood 3.96 meters (13 feet) at the shoulder and was estimated to have weighed 10.4 tonnes (23,000 pounds). This sheer volume requires a skeletal structure and musculature capable of supporting the immense weight.
Beyond its bulk, the elephant possesses several unique characteristics. Its large, convex back distinguishes it from the forest elephant. The enormous, triangular ears are highly vascularized and serve a role in thermoregulation, helping to dissipate heat in the hot climate.
The species is characterized by its long, outward-curving tusks, which are actually elongated incisor teeth. The prehensile trunk, an extension of the nose and upper lip, is tipped with two distinct, finger-like projections, allowing for dexterous manipulation of objects.
Geographic Range and Conservation Status
The African Bush Elephant is widely distributed across the savannas and grasslands of sub-Saharan Africa. Its range spans 23 countries, with large populations residing in the southern and eastern parts of the continent. The species prefers open habitats like savannas, grasslands, and semi-arid regions.
Despite its wide distribution, the African Bush Elephant faces serious threats to its long-term survival. It is currently classified as Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. This status reflects a significant population decline over recent decades.
The primary dangers to the elephants are poaching and habitat loss. Poaching for the illegal ivory trade has devastated populations, while the conversion of natural habitats for agriculture and human settlement causes fragmentation. This encroachment on their range also leads to increased human-elephant conflict.