Najer Sand Gazelle

The Najer sand gazelle (Gazella najika) is a species of gazelle native to the Emirate of Najer, Alamayn, Zendenia and Plagatea specifically the Andamookan, Najera'jad and Jaled Deserts.

Distribution and Conservation
Today it survives in the wild in small, isolated populations throughout Najer, Zendenia, southern Plagatea and northern Alamayn. Small numbers may also be present in Simulami. The total population of wild Najer Sand Gazelles is thought to be less than 7,000. Significantly more are held in captivity, reserves, or breeding programs, perhaps more than 80,000.

Taxonomy
Until recently, the Najer Sand Gazelle was considered a subspecies of the Guter Gazelle (Gazella subgutturosa), as Gazella subgutturosa najika. Studies established that it was a distinct lineage, and it is now considered a separate species. Further analysis reported that the sand Najer Sand Gazelle was closely related to two Niedene gazelles, Niedene Gazelle (Gazella niedenus) and the Algha Gazelle (Gazella alghos), perhaps even belonging to a single species.

☀ Article by NBEN ☀