Anatomical, physiological, and behavioral mechanisms of thermoregulation in elephants

Elephants use different thermoregulatory mechanisms that depend on the anatomical and morphological characteristics of species. The crevices wrinkles skin enhance water-retention capacity epidermis. highly vascularized ear is another region particular interest, as its movement vasomotor changes promote heat dissipation. Generally, these are modulated by hypothalamic center peripheral response animals. Nonetheless, elephants currently exposed to alterations in their habitats, such global warming climatic changes, which challenge homeothermy. This article aims discuss thermoregulation African (Loxodonta africana) Asian (Elephas maximus) from an anatomical, physiological, behavioral basis. practical implications elements will be analyzed implement tools, infrared thermography, or environmental enrichment, strategies thermal balance elephants.