The largest species of elephant is the African bush elephant (Loxodonta africana). These magnificent creatures can weigh up to 12,000 pounds and reach heights of up to 13 feet at the shoulder, making them the largest land animals on Earth. African bush elephants are characterized by their large ears, which help dissipate heat, and their long tusks, used for foraging and digging. They inhabit various habitats, including savannas, forests, and grasslands across sub-Saharan Africa. Due to habitat loss and poaching, African elephants face significant threats, leading to ongoing conservation efforts to protect and preserve their populations.