DOUBLE HUMPED CAMEL

Features

• The humps are plump and pliable. During the late winter when pastures are scanty, the humps collapse.
• Skull bone is comparatively shorter and wider than dromedary camel.
• The body of the camel is short and stout.
• The body color varies from light brown to dark brown.
• Long hairs grow on the top of the head, along lower part of the neck, hump and legs.
• The adult body weight varies from 450 to 550 kg. The male animals are heavier than female.

Research Achievements

• Depending upon age, the average annual hair production per camel ranges from 2.5 to 4.0 kg.
• Hair quality attributes suggested very fine quality fibers. Hair is used for preparation of various items viz. shawls, pullovers, sweaters, winter garments, coats and caps.
• The high staple length and quality of wool fiber indicated its usefulness in fiber processing for the village cottage industry.
• Genetic polymorphism between two species of camel (Camelus dromedarius and Camelus bactrianus) has been found by PCR-RAPD technique.
• Comparative study on haematological and mineral profile of dromedary and bactrian camel showed higher concentration of Haemoglobin (Hb), Calcium (Ca), Phosphorus (P), Zinc (Zn), Iron (Fe) and Copper (Cu).
• The important diseases prevalent are actinobacillosis, pneumonia, eye diseases associated with corneal opacity, hydro-pericardium and ectopic pregnancies.
• Commonly available feed/fodder plants utilized by the camels have been evaluated for various nutritional parameters. The highest CP content was found in the leaves of Chhowk tree followed by Alfa-alfa, Changama and Beecho. However, CF was higher in Alfa-alfa grass followed by Longtol.
• The bactrian camels are seasonal breeders and the breeding season extends from January to March.
• Reproductive behaviour in the males during rutting indicated biting, active secretion form the poll glands and frothing.
• Bactrian camel can carry load up to 1 quintal as baggage and can work for 6-8 hours daily.