Anatomical, Biochemical and Physiological Characteristics of Dromedary Camels (Camelus dromedarius) Adapted to Climate Change and Desert Conditions: An Overview

Abstract

Dromedaries (Camelus dromedarius) can live in extreme climates, especially in Africa and Asia, without negatively affecting. However, dromedaries can survive where drought kills other ruminants like cattle, goats, and sheep. The purpose of this review was to summarize the adaptability of dromedaries to climate change and desert regions to ensure their performance even under difficult environmental conditions. Numerous studies have shown that the effects of heat and dehydration resulting from climate change on dromedaries are minimal, as they differ anatomically and physiologically from other animals in their ability to endure heat, tolerate water and food shortages, and exhibit greater adaptability. Dromedary camels can tolerate dehydration and lose up to 30% of their body weight due to lack of water, while other ruminants can only lose 10-15% of their body weight. In addition, a dromedary's body temperature can fluctuate by up to 6°C when they are dehydrated or exposed to heat stress. Anatomical studies of dromedaries have shown that both their digestive and urinary systems are responsible for their ability to conserve water during periods of drought and heat in arid regions. Furthermore, from a physiological point of view, it has been proven that water loss in dromedaries during droughts is much lower than in ruminants. It is noteworthy that the productivity of Arabian camels in terms of milk or meat production was higher than that of other milk-producing animal species under climate change and heat stress. In conclusion, the dromedary camel 'has evolved exceptional physiological, anatomical, and biochemical characteristics to adapt to the extreme heat, climate change, and aridity of the desert.