Here are a few of the rhinoceros species: Black They are thought to have diverged from each other about ten million years ago. The Indian rhino and the Javan rhino are the only remaining relatives of the Dicerorhinini. Both African rhinos (Black and White rhinos) belong to the Dicerotini tribe, thought to have originated 14.2 million years ago, during the middle Miocene. The rhinoceros taxonomic family is known as “Rhinocerotidae.” It consists of four genera: the White rhino (Ceratotherium), the Black rhino (Diceros), the Indian and Javan rhino (Rhinoceros), and the Sumatran rhino (Dicerorhinus).Īll of these species alive today are split into three categories. Modern-day rhinos are ancestors of Asian rhinos that lived during the Miocene. The last American rhinos also became an extinct species in the Pliocene period. This species is believed to have died out around 5 million years ago. One of these was the Menoceras, which had two side-by-side horns and was around the size of a pig. The earliest rhinos were much smaller, and there are believed to have been as many as 26 different species across North America and Eurasia until many of the smaller rhinos were wiped out by extinction events in the middle Oligocene period.ĭespite this, many lineages were able to survive. The ancestor of all modern rhinos was known as “Rhinocerotidae.” They first appeared in Eurasia in the Late Eocene era. Given below is a complete overview of the rhino populations’ taxonomy and etymology. In both species, the rear horn is slightly smaller. The Black rhino’s horns are closer together, while the White rhino has more space between them. White rhinos have a square-shaped lip more suited for grazing, while black rhinos have a pointed-shaped lip that helps them to grasp leaves from bushes and trees.īoth Black and White rhinos have two horns but appear slightly different. Interestingly, the White and Black rhino are actually the same color – brownish-gray.Īside from the modest size differences, their main distinguishing feature is their lips. This rhino is around 5.2 feet tall and weighs between 1720 to 3080 pounds. This type of rhino can stand at 6 feet tall and weigh an impressive 7,900 pounds! The Black rhino is the smallest of the two African species. The White rhino, an African species, is the largest. This species can reach 5.8 feet in height and weigh up to 5000 pounds. They have an average height of 3.3 to 5 feet and are around 6-13 feet long. In terms of size, some species are larger and heavier than others. They are even vulnerable to sunburn! So to protect their skin, rhinos will soak in mud wallows or roll around in the dust. Their blood vessels are extremely close to the skin’s surface, so they can feel the irritation caused by insect bites. For example, African species and Sumatran Rhinos have two horns, but the Javan rhino has one horn.Īll rhinos have very thick skin however, it is also very sensitive. Not all Rhinos have the same number of horns. “Rhino” means “nose,” and “ceros” means “horn.” In fact, the name “rhinoceros” is a combination of Greek words. One of the most striking features of the rhinoceros is its horn. Read on to find out all you ever wished to know about rhinos and how you can help protect them. There is still a chance that we can save these wonderful creatures from extinction, but we need to act fast. They are frequently killed by persistent poaching, and human activities are rapidly destroying their habitat. Sadly, the rhino population is decreasing at a frightening rate, making them one of the most endangered animals. They are rarely aggressive, spending their days roaming around, chomping on grasses and plants. With their horned noses, large bodies, immense strength, and thick skin – you could be forgiven for thinking they are some kind of dinosaur!ĭespite their appearance, most rhino species are pretty laid back. There are only a few animals on this planet, more impressive than the rhinoceros.
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