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Elephants are large, intelligent mammals that belong to the family Elephantidae within the order Proboscidea. They are characterized by their long trunks, which they use for breathing, lifting objects, and gathering food. Elephants also have large ears, which help them regulate their body temperature, and tusks, which are actually elongated incisors that can be used for digging, lifting, gathering food, and defense. Within the Proboscidea order, elephants share a common ancestry with mammoths, although they are distinct species. Elephants are found in Africa and Asia, and there are three extant species: the African bush elephant, the African forest elephant, and the Asian elephant. Elephants play an important role in their ecosystems as large herbivores, helping to shape vegetation patterns and create habitat for other species. They also have complex social structures and are known for their intelligence and memory. Unfortunately, elephants face numerous threats from habitat loss, poaching, and human-elephant conflict, leading to declining populations in some areas. As members of the Proboscidea order within the broader categories of mammals and animals, elephants share common characteristics with other proboscideans, such as their long trunks and tusks. However, they are unique among proboscideans in their large size, complex social structures, and high level of intelligence.