Cape hippopotamus
A species of Hippos Scientific name : Hippopotamus amphibius capensis Genus : Hippos
Cape hippopotamus, A species of Hippos
Scientific name: Hippopotamus amphibius capensis
Genus: Hippos
Content
Description General Info
Description
Cape hippopotamus performs two distinct behaviors influencing its ecological role: crepuscular grazing and social territoriality. Its nocturnal feeding habits help cycle nutrients, maintaining local flora. Moreover, by establishing group territories within bodies of water, water quality and nutrient distribution are affected.
General Info
Lifespan
40-50 years
Diet
Cape hippopotamus predominantly feeds on grasses, dedicating six hours nightly to graze, consuming an average of 40kg. Occasionally, cape hippopotamus supplements its diet with fallen fruits and may even engage in carnivorous behavior under deficient conditions.
Appearance
Cape hippopotamus is a large, bulky mammal with a barrel-shaped body and nearly hairless, smooth, grayish skin. It possesses a large head with small ears and eyes situated high on the skull. Notable are its enormous mouths equipped with formidable canine teeth. Both sexes have similar appearances, but males tend to be larger with more prominent tusks.
Behavior
Cape hippopotamus is primarily nocturnal, spending most days lounging in water or mud to regulate body heat. This species is highly social, living in large groups. Males exhibit territoriality, defending their spaces aggressively. Cape hippopotamus also showcases unique behavior such as 'yawing', a threat display involving wide opening of the mouth.
Scientific Classification
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