Elephants are known for their long lifespans, living up to 70 years. Throughout their lives, elephant herds split and merge, requiring them to develop complex vocal communication to stay connected. They produce a wide range of sounds, including:
- Low-frequency rumbles and roars
- High-frequency squeaks and chirps
Most of what is known about elephant communication comes from studies on African elephants (genus Loxodonta), while less is known about Asian elephants (genus Elephas), native to India and other parts of Asia.
New Study on Asian Elephant Calls
A study published in the journal Mammalian Biology on December 23, 2024, analyzed the vocalizations of Asian elephants based on their: Age, Sex and Behaviour.
Key Findings:
- Trumpet calls remained fairly consistent across all age groups in both males and females.
- Roars and roar-rumbles became longer with age, suggesting a possible role in maturity and social communication.
Differences Between Asian and African Elephants
There are over 10 physical characteristics that distinguish the two elephant species.
| Feature | Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus) | African Elephant (Loxodonta spp.) |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Smaller than African elephants | Largest land mammal on Earth |
| Ears | Smaller | Large, fan-shaped |
| Tusks | Only some males have tusks | Both males and females have tusks |
| Head Shape | Twin-domed head with two humps | Rounded head with a concave back |
Additionally, the African elephant species is further divided into:
- Savanna elephants (Loxodonta africana)
- Forest elephants (Loxodonta cyclotis)
Each has distinct characteristics suited to their environments.
(Sources: The Hindu & WWF)
