The dromedary camel; a review on the aspects of history, physical description, adaptations, behavior/lifecycle, diet, reproduction, uses, genetics and diseases

Abstract

Some aspects of the life of the dromedary camel were examined based on available literature. The camel was said to be domesticated in the present day Oman about 4000 yrs ago. Two dominant species where named, the Camelus dromedary and Camelus bacterainus. Its name the “ship of the desert” was said to be given because of its usefulness to the desert nomads to whom the camel serves as beast of burden, draft animal and also a source of milk, meat, hides, hair and wool. Their ability to stay for long periods without water is one of the characteristics that make the camel of great importance due to the emergence of environmental challenges such as desert encroachment and global warming. The fast developing sport of camel racing has the potential of becoming an industry that will further enrich the economy and promote tourism in some Arab countries. The camel is also known to be susceptible to diseases like antrax, surra, helminthosis, salmonellosis, brucellosis, tuberculosis, pasturellosis, paratuberculosis, black quarter, pneumonia, and tetanus.

Keywords: Camel, dromedary, origin, genus, uses, products