The even-toed ungulates (Order Artiodactyla) include camels, giraffes, cattle, pigs, hippoptamuses, deer, pronghorn, and peccaries. Even-toed ungulates (artiodactyls) are hoofed mammals with feet that are symmetrical around a plane of symmetry that runs between their third and fourth toes. Many artiodactyls can run at fast speeds. Most inhabit grasslands, savannas, and plains.
Some species of artiodactyls grow horns, while others exhibit antlers. Most members of this order are herbivorous (that is, they consume a plant-based diet). Some artiodactyls (such as antelopes) have a four-chambered stomach which enables them to digest celloluse from the plant matter they eat.
Classification
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Mammalia
- Order Artiodactyla
The Order Artiodactyla includes the following families:- Family: Suidae (pigs)
- Family: Tayassuidae (peccaries)
- Family: Hippopotamidae (Hippopotamuses)
- Family: Camelidae (camels)
- Family: Bovidae (cattle, antelope, sheep, goats)
- Family: Cervidae (deer)
- Family: Antilocapridae (pronghorn)
- Family: Tragulidae (chevrotains and mouse deer)
- Family: Giraffidae (giraffe)
- Family: Moschidae (musk deer)
Where to See
Worldwide except for Antartica and Australia. Artiodactyls can be found in grasslands, savannas, and forests. Hippopotamuses are semi-acquatic.
References
- Burnie D, Wilson DE. 2001. Animal. London: Dorling Kindersley. 624 p.
