Asian and African elephants are well-known land animals. That being said, it is not surprising that the two are often confused with each other.
Although Asian and African elephants belong to the same species, they have different physical characteristics that make them remarkably different from one another.
This article will go into detail on the physical characteristics that mark the difference between Asian and African elephants within the context of the Civil Services Examination.
Difference-Between-Asian-and-African-Elephants.docx
Aspirants can find more Difference Between Articles, by checking the linked article.
The differences between an Asian Elephant and an African Elephant are given in the table below:
Difference Between Asian Elephants and African Elephants
| Asian Elephant | African Elephant |
| Asian elephants have a twin-domed head with an indent running up the centre of their head. | African elephants have fuller, more rounded heads, and the top of their head is a single dome shape. |
| Asian Elephant ears are much smaller, almost semi-circular in shape. | The ears of African elephants are much larger, almost shaped like the African continent. |
| The Asian Elephant is comparatively smaller than its African counterpart. Adults reach 3.5 metres | Of the two elephant species, the African elephant is the larger one. Adults reach a height of 4 metres. |
| Asian Elephants weigh between 3000 and 6000 kg. | African Elephants weigh between 4000 and 8000 kg. |
| Only Asian elephants males have tusk while females have rudimentary tusks called tushes. | Both male and female African elephants have tusks. |
| Asian elephants have long, tapered lower lips. | African elephants’ lower lips are short and round. |
| Asian elephants have smoother skin compared to their African counterpart. | African elephants’ skin is far more wrinkled and rough. |
| Asian elephants’ teeth have a compressed diamond-shaped tooth profile. | African elephant teeth are ‘loxodont’ (or sloping), a term which gives them their scientific name Africana Loxodonta. |
| Asian Elephants are found in Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand. | African elephants range across the rainforests of West and Central Africa and through the savannas and deserts of Africa. |
| Asian elephants can live up to 48 years. | African elephants can live up to 70 years. |
Difference between Asian and African Elephants – Download PDF Here
Questions on Asian and African Elephants can be asked in the environment and ecology segment of the UPSC Prelims Exam. Candidates can refer to the following link to learn more about the segment:
Frequently Asked Questions about Asian and African Elephants
What are the different physical characteristics of Asian and African Elephants?
Which is larger, the African elephant or the Asian elephant?
For more information about upcoming Government Exams, visit the linked article. More exam-related preparation materials will be found through the links given below:
Related Links
Comments