Boselaphus is a genus of large antelope species belonging to the family Bovidae, commonly known as the antelope family. The term is derived from the combination of the Greek words "bos" meaning cow, and "elaphos" meaning deer. This genus includes two main species, Boselaphus tragocamelus, also known as the nilgai or blue bull, and Boselaphus namadicus, also known as the kouprey.
The nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) is native to the Indian subcontinent, specifically found in India, Nepal, and Pakistan. It is known for its robust body structure with a shoulder height of about 120 to 150 centimeters (47 to 59 inches). The males possess thick, curved horns, whereas females lack horns. Nilgai are active during the day and primarily graze on grasses, leaves, fruits, and agricultural crops. They are known for their intolerance to extreme humidity, seeking shade and wallowing in mud to cool themselves.
The kouprey (Boselaphus namadicus) is a critically endangered species native to the Indochina region of Southeast Asia, including Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. They are recognized for their large size, with males weighing up to 900 kilograms (2,000 pounds) and sporting long, curved horns. Kouprey are predominantly grazers, feeding on grasses, leaves, and other vegetation. Due to habitat loss, hunting, and competition with domestic livestock, their population has significantly declined, making them one of the rarest large mammals in the world.
Overall, Boselaphus refers to a genus of antelopes comprising the nilgai and
