Camelid population is growing, and 2024 is the Year of the Camelids! There has been an increase in camelid-related scientific output in the last few decades, covering all aspects from farming to reproduction technologies, and from internal medicine to welfare. Camelids are multi-purpose animals, being kept not only for milk, meat, and wool production, but also for working, riding, beauty contests, and racing. The growing needs and rising awareness about camels have changed the notion of them being just 'ships of the desert' to being recognized as 'food security animals' in many arid and semi-arid areas of the world.

Camels play a prominent role in pastoral economies globally and are predicted to meet the milk and meat demands of pastoral communities in particular. Consequently, camels have been described as the 'livestock of the future'. However, New World Camelids, namely llamas and alpacas, have also gained increasing popularity, resulting in a greater demand for veterinary care for llamas and alpacas worldwide.

Our current knowledge of camelid behavior, physiology, health, and welfare is still limited, and camelid farming practices are often based on traditions and beliefs. Therefore, there is a pressing need for more evidence to implement regulations that can protect camelid health and welfare, while also enhancing their productivity.

We welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Advances in camelid reproductive technologies
• Innovations in camelid health and internal medicine
• Current trends in camelid welfare practices
• Impact of camelid farming on pastoral economies
• Role of camelids in food security and sustainability in arid regions
• Comparative studies between Old World and New World camelids

We welcome all camelid scientists to submit their articles to this Research Topic, with various types of articles being accepted, including reviews, original research studies, and opinion papers.

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Frontiers in Veterinary Science

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