Giraffe

The Species

The tallest terrestrial mammal, and the largest ruminant on Earth, the Giraffe (scientific name: Giraffa camelopardalis) resides in the forests and savannas of Africa, instantly recognisable due to its long neck and and spotted coat.

It has a conservation status of Vulnerable.

The giraffe's primary habitat is African savanna and woodland. Their diet consists mainly of leaves and flower buds, from trees like Acacias, which is typical of browsers. Giraffes have a blood pressure roughly double that of a human, to effectively pump blood up such a long neck to the brain. Poaching and hunting are major threats, as giraffes are valued for their hides, horns and meat.

Role in Ecology

As giraffes are browsers, and particularly to their long necks, they feed on vegetation not available to other animals. This ensures that the growth of all vegetation is kept in balance, as the giraffes are effectively pruning the plants they eat. They do also occasionally consume seeds, contributing to seed dispersal.

Importance of Biodiversity

Biodiversity (or Biological Diversity) is a term that describes the variety of living beings on earth, and includes diversity across species, within species, and across ecosystems. It is vital to maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. According to scientific estimates there are 8.7 million species on the planet.