Genus Bison refers to a taxonomic category within the family Bovidae, which includes large herbivorous mammals known as bison. Genus Bison is characterized by its two recognized extant species, Bison bison (American bison) and Bison bonasus (European bison), both of which belong to the subfamily Bovinae. These species have a similar morphology and behavior, but there are some distinguishing features between them.
Bison species are characterized by their robust and muscular build, with a hump on their shoulders formed by strong neck muscles. They possess a distinctive head shape, featuring a large and wide skull with curved horns that are present in both males and females, although they are typically larger in males. Bison have a thick, shaggy coat, which changes with the seasons to adapt to environmental conditions.
These herbivorous mammals are primarily grazers, consuming mainly grasses and sedges, and though they are not exceptional runners, they are agile and capable of cruising speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. They inhabit diverse habitats including grasslands, open forests, and meadows across North America and parts of Europe. Historically, they played a significant ecological and cultural role in these regions.
Currently, both species of the Genus Bison face varying levels of conservation concern. While the American bison has rebounded from near extinction and is now classified as "near threatened," the European bison is classified as "vulnerable" due to population fragmentation and other threats. Efforts are being made to protect and restore their populations, ensuring the persistence and conservation of Genus Bison for future generations.
