Vol. 9, Special Issue 5, Part E (2024)

Camel genetic resources are of significant importance due to the animal's unique adaptations to harsh environments and its socioeconomic role in arid and semi-arid regions. Camels, primarily dromedaries (one-humped) and Bactrian camels (two-humped), possess genetic traits that allow them to thrive in extreme conditions of heat, drought, and scarce vegetation. These genetic adaptations include efficient water conservation mechanisms, heat tolerance, and the ability to metabolize rough and fibrous vegetation. Camel populations are crucial for the livelihoods of millions of people, providing transportation, milk, meat, wool, and hides, and serving as a source of wealth in pastoral communities. The preservation and study of camel genetic diversity are essential not only for maintaining the biodiversity of desert ecosystems but also for improving camel productivity through selective breeding. As climate change intensifies, the importance of these genetic resources is growing, offering potential solutions for sustainable agriculture and food security in regions increasingly affected by environmental stressors. Conserving and understanding camel genetic resources is therefore vital for both ecological sustainability and the resilience of human communities that depend on them.