The large ear flaps assist in maintaining a constant body temperature as well as in communication. Tusks, which are derived from the incisor teeth, serve both as weapons and as tools for moving objects and digging. The trunk is prehensile, bringing food and water to the mouth and grasping objects. Distinctive features of elephants include a long proboscis called a trunk, tusks, large ear flaps, pillar-like legs, and tough but sensitive grey skin. They are the only surviving members of the family Elephantidae and the order Proboscidea extinct relatives include mammoths and mastodons. Three living species are currently recognised: the African bush elephant, the African forest elephant, and the Asian elephant. A female African bush elephant in Mikumi National Park, TanzaniaĬladistically included but traditionally excluded taxaĮlephants are the largest living land animals.
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