17 January 2025
Water Conservation Series – Animals that Conserve Water – The Camel
In the heart of arid deserts and where water is a precious commodity, the camel stands out as a remarkable mammal. As we explore this incredible animal from the Camelidae family we will gain insight into their unique adaptions and vital lessons for sustainable water use.
Firstly, let us explore the three types of camels in the world.
Dromedary (One Humped Camel)
Also known as the Arabian camel, makes up 90% of the world’s camel population. They are found throughout desert areas in North Africa and the Middle East. Surprisingly, Australia now holds the largest population, with over a million. Originally brought here for transport and construction in the 19th and 20th centuries. Since the introduction of motor vehicles, many camels were released into the wild. Australia is now exporting camels to the Middle East, where they are used for breeding, milk, meat, sport, and entertainment.
Bactrian (Two-Humped Camel)
Native to China’s Gobi Desert and the Bactrian Steppes of Mongolia there are about 2 million domesticated Bactrian camels. Known for their resistance to cold, drought, and high altitudes, they have been used for centuries as pack animals. They have also long been used as a livestock for food and milk production and their hair is used for fibre and felt. They weigh between 300-1000kg, and their long woolly coats shed in large sections, giving a rugged appearance.
Wild Bactrian
Fewer than 900 wild Bactrians remain, classified as critically endangered due to many factors including habitat loss either from human activity or climate change, and hybridisation with domestic camels. Conservation efforts focus on creating protection areas and providing water sources on migration routes. They have a fear of humans, and their sense of smell is incredible, smelling out humans from 100km away. Wild Bactrian camels can cry to wash sand from their eyes and can drink salt water without ill effect.
Diet and Water Conservation
Camels primarily eat a diet based on vegetation that grows in their environment - leaves, stems, grass, and fruits. But when resources are scarce, they can eat meat, fish, bones, and even tents. They can drink up to 70 litres of water at a time, storing it in their bloodstream. Their humps store fat, not water, which their bodies convert to energy, when food and water are scarce.
Unique Water Saving Abilities
- Camels conserve water by sweating less and producing thick, syrup-like urine.
- Their dung, because of low moisture content can be used as fire starters.
- Camels’ nostrils act as dehumidifiers and can seal up to stop sand getting up their nose.
- When fat is burned, water is produced as a by-product.
Lessons in Water Conservation
Camels demonstrate the incredible the power of adaption in face of harsh conditions, making the most of limited resources and preparing for unpredictability. While we may not need to eat a tent for survival, we can learn to conserve water and reduce wastage. At Orion Australia we are here to help; by exploring our website, you will find water saving products and informative blogs.
