KHARAI CAMEL

●Name origin: From Gujarati “Khara” (saline) — denotes its adaptation to saline desert–coastal ecosystems.

●Unique feature: Only camel breed in the world that can swim up to 3 km in seawater to reach mangrove islands.

●Habitat: Brackish tidal creeks and mangrove forests of Kachchh, Gujarat.

●Cultural link: Protected and reared by Rabari and Fakirani Jat Maldharis for over 400 years, forming a core part of pastoral heritage.

●Diet:

Feeds on Avicennia and Rhizophora mangroves, which provide natural salt balance and high mineral nutrition.

●Milk Value:

-Rich in iron, vitamin C, and antibodies similar to human milk.

-Easily digestible, boosts immunity, and used in therapeutic and traditional remedies.

●Threats: 

Illegal salt pan expansion, industrial encroachment, and mangrove loss in CRZ-I zones have destroyed grazing areas, causing a sharp population decline of Kharai camels.

●CONSERVATION STATUS - 

IUCN - EN