International Year of Camelids 2024 – How Important They Are?

FAO announces the International Year of Camelids 2024. What are camelids and how they are important for humans and environments?

Camelids are a group of mammals that belong to the family Camelidae, which includes camels, llamas, alpacas, vicuñas and guanacos. They are the only living members of the suborder Tylopoda, which means “padded foot”. Camelids have two-toed feet with soft pads that help them walk on rough terrain. They also have split upper lips, long necks, and unique antibodies that can be used for medical research.

Camelids are important for humans and environments in many ways. They provide food, fiber, transportation, and companionship to people in different regions of the world. They can survive in harsh conditions such as deserts, mountains, and cold climates. They can also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by eating plants that other animals cannot digest. Camelids are also part of the biodiversity and culture of many countries, especially in South America and Asia.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has announced that 2024 will be the International Year of Camelids, to raise awareness and appreciation of these animals and their contributions to sustainable development. The FAO hopes that this initiative will promote the conservation and improvement of camelid breeds, as well as the livelihoods of the people who depend on them.