Kiang: History, Facts, Size, Habitat, Classification & Much More

By Morgan Gutierrez

Today, we are diving into the fascinating world of the Kiang, a remarkable animal that you may not have heard about before. With its rich history, unique facts, impressive size, and diverse habitat, the Kiang is a true wonder of the animal kingdom. In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know about this amazing creature.

The Kiang, also known as the Tibetan wild ass, has a long and intriguing history. It has been a symbol of the Himalayan region for centuries and is deeply ingrained in the local culture. Despite its remote habitat, the Kiang has managed to capture the attention of scientists and animal enthusiasts alike, leading to numerous research studies on its behavior and characteristics.

In terms of facts, the Kiang is an animal that never fails to astound. With a height of about four to five feet at the shoulder and a weight of up to 900 pounds, it is one of the largest wild asses in the world. Additionally, its stunning sandy-brown coat allows it to blend in perfectly with its high-altitude grassland habitat. The Kiang is a herbivore and survives on a diet of grasses and other low-lying vegetation.

So, whether you are an animal lover or simply curious about the wonders of nature, the Kiang is a remarkable creature that deserves our attention. Join us as we delve into its history, uncover fascinating facts, explore its impressive size, and understand its unique habitat. Stay tuned for an informative and exciting journey into the enchanting world of the Kiang. And remember, we already have an article on 155+ animal names, so be sure to check that out too.

History of Kiang

The Kiang is a special kind of animal with a long and interesting history. It is found in the highlands of the Tibetan Plateau, which is a very large and important area in Asia. The Kiang is a member of the wild ass family. It has a beautiful golden-brown coat that helps it blend into its surroundings.

For many years, the Kiang has played an important role in the lives of the people living in the Tibetan Plateau. The local communities have been using it as a pack animal for transportation and carrying heavy loads. The Kiang is well adapted to the harsh conditions of its habitat, with strong hooves that allow it to walk long distances over rocky terrain. This unique animal has been a reliable and trusted companion for the people in this region.

In recent times, the Kiang has faced some challenges. Due to habitat loss and hunting, their numbers have decreased significantly. However, efforts have been made by conservationists to protect and preserve this wonderful creature. Conservation projects have helped to raise awareness about the importance of the Kiang and its role in maintaining the ecological balance of the Tibetan Plateau. With the help of these efforts, the Kiang population is slowly increasing, giving hope for their future survival.

In conclusion, the Kiang is a special and unique animal with a rich history. It has been an important part of the Tibetan Plateau for many years, helping people with their transportation needs. Although facing challenges, conservation efforts are being made to protect and preserve the Kiang. It is our responsibility to support these efforts and ensure that this majestic creature continues to thrive in its natural habitat.

Importance of Kiang

The Kiang animal is very important in the English language for a few reasons. Firstly, it is a native animal of the Himalayan region and plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem there. This means that if the Kiang becomes extinct, it can have a negative impact on the overall environment and other animals who depend on it for survival.

Secondly, the Kiang is also of cultural significance as it is often featured in folk tales, stories, and even poems by people living in the Himalayan region. It represents strength, resilience, and freedom. These stories and poems not only entertain people, but they also help in preserving the cultural heritage of the region.

Lastly, the Kiang has become a symbol of conservation and the need to protect wildlife. Its presence in wildlife sanctuaries and protected areas highlights the importance of preserving natural habitats and preventing human activities that may harm these animals. By raising awareness about the Kiang, we can educate people about the importance of wildlife conservation and the need to protect endangered species.

In conclusion, the Kiang animal holds a significant place in the English language due to its ecological importance, cultural significance, and role in promoting wildlife conservation. It is crucial to safeguard these animals and their habitats for a sustainable future.

Amazing Facts About Kiang

1. The Kiang is a large mammal and is the largest species of wild ass found in Asia.
2. They are mostly found in the high-altitude regions of Central Asia, particularly in Tibet, Mongolia, and China.
3. Kiangs have a unique sandy brown to reddish-brown coat, which helps them blend into their grassland habitats.
4. Adult Kiangs can reach an impressive height of about 4.5 to 5 feet at the shoulder and have a body length of about 8 to 10 feet.
5. They have long legs and a slender body, which enables them to run at high speeds and cover long distances.
6. Contrary to popular belief, Kiangs are not closely related to donkeys or horses but belong to their own distinct group called Equids.
7. Kiangs primarily feed on grass, herbs, and shrubs, and their strong teeth and unique digestive system allow them to efficiently extract nutrients from tough plant material.
8. These animals have keen eyesight and excellent hearing, which help them detect potential predators from a distance.
9. Kiangs live in small herds, consisting of females, their offspring, and a single dominant male who protects the group from danger.
10. During the mating season, male Kiangs engage in intense battles to establish dominance and win the right to mate with females.
11. The gestation period for a Kiang is about 11 months, and usually, only one foal is born at a time.
12. Kiang foals are able to stand and walk within an hour of birth, and they start to graze after a week.
13. Due to their large population and wide distribution, Kiangs are not currently listed as endangered; however, certain threats like habitat loss and hunting can pose risks to their survival.
14. They have a lifespan of about 20-25 years in the wild, but they may live longer under favorable conditions.
15. Kiangs play an important role in their ecosystems by dispersing plant seeds through their droppings, contributing to the overall health and diversity of grassland habitats.

Can we keep Kiang as our Pet?

The Kiang animal is a species of wild horse that is found in the high-altitude regions of the Tibetan Plateau. These magnificent creatures have a strong and sturdy build, making them well-adapted to their harsh environment. However, it is important to understand that Kiangs are wild animals and not suitable to be kept as pets.

Unfortunately, the Kiang population has been declining rapidly in recent years. There are several reasons for their extinction, with habitat loss being a major factor. Human activities such as mining, construction, and farming have led to the destruction of the Kiang’s natural habitat, leaving them with limited space to thrive. Additionally, poaching and illegal hunting have also contributed to their decline.

Due to their significance as a keystone species in their ecosystem, it is crucial to protect and conserve the Kiang population. While it may be tempting to keep these beautiful animals as pets, it is important to remember that they belong in the wild, where they can roam freely and contribute to the ecosystem. As responsible individuals, it is our duty to support efforts that promote the conservation of the Kiang and their habitats.

In conclusion, the Kiang animal is a magnificent species that should be admired and respected in its natural habitat. It is not appropriate or ethical to keep them as pets, considering their endangered status and the importance of their conservation. We must take steps to raise awareness about the threats they face and work towards preserving their population for future generations to appreciate.

Size of Kiang

The Kiang animal is known for its impressive size. It belongs to the horse family and can be found in the high-altitude regions of the Tibetan Plateau. Standing at a height of about 4 to 5 feet (1.2 to 1.5 meters) at the shoulder, the Kiang is one of the largest wild equines in the world.

Its body is quite solid and muscular, measuring around 8 to 9 feet (2.4 to 2.7 meters) in length and weighing between 440 to 770 pounds (200 to 350 kilograms). The Kiang has a large head with a long face and a wide mouth, equipped with strong teeth for grazing on tough grasses. Its long legs are well-built, allowing it to move swiftly and easily traverse the rocky terrain of its habitat.

One fascinating aspect of the Kiang’s size is its ability to adapt to the harsh environment it inhabits. Despite the thin air and cold temperatures of the Tibetan Plateau, the Kiang has adapted over time to survive in these extreme conditions. Its large size helps it conserve heat and energy, allowing it to withstand the freezing climate and strong mountain winds.

In summary, the Kiang animal is a magnificent creature known for its size. Standing at an impressive height and weighing several hundred pounds, it is one of the largest wild equines around. Its size has enabled it to adapt to the challenging high-altitude regions it calls home, making it a true marvel of the animal kingdom.

Habitat of Kiang

The Kiang animal lives in a special place called a habitat. The habitat of a Kiang is the area where it lives and finds everything it needs to survive. Kiangs are found in a few countries in Asia, such as China, Mongolia, and India. They prefer to live in the high mountains and grasslands.

The habitat of a Kiang is usually a cold and dry place. They can survive in extreme weather conditions, like very cold winters and hot summers. Their bodies are adapted to this environment, with long and thick fur to keep warm in winter, and a strong body shape to withstand the harsh winds. Kiangs like to eat grass, so their habitat has plenty of this plant for them to graze on.

In their habitat, Kiang animals can also find water sources like rivers and lakes. They need water to drink and keep their bodies hydrated. Sometimes, they migrate to different places in search of food and water. Their habitat is also shared with other animals like birds and other grazing animals, which can make it a lively and busy place.

In conclusion, the habitat of a Kiang is a cold and dry area in the high mountains and grasslands of Asia. It provides them with the necessary resources like grass and water to survive. Despite the challenging weather, Kiangs have adapted well to their habitat and can thrive in these conditions.

Evolution of Kiang

The Kiang animal is a type of wild horse that has evolved over millions of years. In the beginning, long ago, the ancestors of Kiang were small, deer-like animals. They lived in forests and had short legs, perfect for running through the trees. However, as time went on, the environment changed, and the Kiang’s ancestors had to adapt to survive.

As the forests turned into grasslands, the Kiang’s ancestors had to transform their bodies. They began to grow longer legs, which helped them run faster and navigate the open plains. They also developed strong teeth to chew the tough grass they now had to eat. These changes made them well-suited for life on the grassy plains, and they evolved into the Kiang we know today.

Over time, the Kiang animals continued to evolve further. They developed thicker and sturdier bodies, which allowed them to withstand the harsh weather of the grasslands. They also gained excellent eyesight to spot predators from far away, ensuring their survival. These adaptations made the Kiang animals strong and resilient, perfect for the challenging life in the wild.

In summary, the Kiang animal has gone through many changes to adapt to its changing environment. From small deer-like creatures in the forests to strong and agile horses in the grasslands, the Kiang has evolved over millions of years to become the magnificent animal we see today. Its longer legs, strong teeth, sturdy bodies, and keen eyesight all play a role in helping it survive and thrive in the wild.

Classification of Kiang

The Kiang animal, also known as the Tibetan wild ass, belongs to the animal kingdom, which includes all living things. More specifically, it belongs to the Class Mammalia, which means it is a warm-blooded vertebrate (animals with a backbone) that gives birth to live young ones and nurses them with milk. This classification is similar to other animals like elephants, lions, and dolphins, which are also mammals.

Within the Class Mammalia, the Kiang animal is further classified into the Order Perissodactyla. This order includes animals with an odd number of toes, such as horses, zebras, and rhinoceroses. The Kiang animal, like its close relatives, has adapted to living in grassland and mountainous regions, using its strong legs to run fast and escape from predators.

Finally, the Kiang animal is classified under the Family Equidae, also known as the horse family. This family includes animals that have a similar body structure, which allows them to run fast. Horses, zebras, and donkeys are all part of this family. The Kiang animal is the largest and heaviest member of the Equidae family, with a wild and untamed beauty.

To sum up, the Kiang animal belongs to the Class Mammalia, the Order Perissodactyla, and the Family Equidae. It is a mammal with special adaptations, such as strong legs and a large body, allowing it to survive in its unique habitat. Studying the classification of animals helps scientists understand how different species are related to each other and how they have evolved to survive in diverse environments.

How did Kiang Extinct?

1. Kiang – The Kiang is a type of animal that belongs to the Equidae family, which includes horses, donkeys, and zebras. It is mostly found in the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau. These animals have a stocky build with a short, erect mane and a thick, shaggy coat for protection against cold weather.

2. Herbivorous – Kiangs are strictly herbivorous animals, meaning they feed on plants and vegetation. They graze on the grasses and shrubs found in their natural habitat, playing a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem’s balance. Their diet consists mainly of tough grasses, which they can digest efficiently due to their unique digestive system.

3. Social Behavior – Kiangs are highly social animals that live in herds consisting of females, their offspring, and a dominant male called a stallion. These herds can range in size from a few individuals to over 100. Living in groups helps them defend against predators and increases their chances of finding food and water.

4. Adaptation – Kiangs are well-adapted to survive in harsh environments. They have large, tough hooves specially designed to help them traverse rocky terrains and prevent sinking in marshy areas. Their strong sense of hearing and sight enables them to detect predators from a distance, allowing for a quick escape.

5. Endangered Species – Unfortunately, the Kiang population is declining due to habitat loss caused by human activities such as mining, livestock grazing, and infrastructure development. Additionally, poaching for their meat and skin poses a significant threat to their survival. Conservation efforts are vital to protect these beautiful animals.

6. Longevity – Kiangs have a relatively long lifespan, usually living up to 20-25 years. This longevity is attributed to their sturdy physique, adaptation to extreme conditions, and the social support they receive from their herd members.

7. Reproduction – Female Kiangs reach sexual maturity around the age of three, while males mature a bit later at around four years old. These animals breed during the summer season, with a gestation period of about 11 months. The female gives birth to a single foal, which can stand and run within a few hours of its birth.

8. Ecological Importance – As herbivores, Kiangs play a crucial role in seed dispersal and maintaining the vegetation structure of their habitat. Through their grazing habits, they help control plant growth, promote biodiversity, and shape the overall ecosystem dynamics in the regions they inhabit.

9. Physical Characteristics – Kiangs have distinct features, such as a robust body with an average height of about 4-5 feet at the shoulder. Their coat coloration varies from light golden to reddish-brown, providing camouflage against the rocky terrain. The males have more pronounced facial features and a thicker mane compared to females.

10. Cultural Significance – Kiangs hold cultural significance in the regions where they reside. They are often portrayed in traditional songs, dances, and artwork, representing the natural beauty and wildlife diversity of the Himalayan and Tibetan regions. Conservation efforts not only protect the Kiang but also preserve an integral part of local heritage.

Geographical Presence of Kiang

The Kiang animal is found in the region of Central Asia, mainly in the countries of Mongolia, China, and Tibet. It inhabits the high-altitude grasslands, steppes, and mountainous areas of these regions. The Kiang, which is also known as the Tibetan wild ass, is well adapted to its habitat and can survive in harsh, extreme conditions. Its large size and strong build enable it to roam freely across vast areas, searching for food and water.

However, the Kiang is not found in other parts of the world. It is specifically native to the Central Asian region and does not exist naturally in any other continent or country. This uniqueness makes the Kiang a special and important animal for the ecosystem of Central Asia.

In order to protect the Kiang, it is vital to preserve its natural habitat and ensure conservation efforts are in place. Central Asian countries need to work together to prevent poaching, habitat destruction, and the encroachment of human activities that may threaten the population of Kiang. By raising awareness about this magnificent creature and its significance to the region, we can ensure its survival for future generations to admire and respect.

Scientific Name of Kiang

The scientific name for the Kiang animal is Equus kiang. Equus refers to the genus, which includes various species of wild horses. The kiang, specifically, belongs to the species kiang.

The Kiang, also known as the Tibetan wild ass, is native to the high-altitude regions of the Tibetan plateau and surrounding areas in Asia. It is well-adapted to the harsh environment of its habitat, with a stocky build, long legs, and a dense coat that can keep it warm during the frigid winters.

Kiangs are herbivores, feeding mainly on grasses and other vegetation found in their natural habitat. They have a strong digestive system that allows them to break down tough plant materials. Their hooves are adapted to the rocky terrain, enabling them to traverse the rugged landscapes with ease.

In conclusion, the scientific name for the Kiang animal is Equus kiang. These majestic creatures are well-suited to their high-altitude habitat and survive on a diet of grasses and plants. Their unique adaptations and resilience make them a fascinating species to study.

Diet of Kiang

The diet of the Kiang animal consists mainly of grasses and other plants found in its habitat. These animals are herbivores, which means they only eat plant material and do not consume meat. Grasses form a significant portion of their diet as they are abundant and provide the necessary nutrients for survival.

Kiangs can be found in the grasslands and mountains of Central Asia, where there is plenty of vegetation for them to graze on. They have adapted to eat tough and fibrous plants, such as sedges and herbs, which many other animals find hard to digest. This allows them to thrive in their natural environment, despite the limited food options available.

These animals have strong teeth and jaws that help them break down the tough grasses they consume. They spend a significant amount of time grazing, moving from one patch of grass to another in search of food. Due to their herbivorous diet, Kiangs play an essential role in maintaining the balance of their ecosystem by controlling plant growth and preventing overgrowth.

In conclusion, the Kiang animal is a herbivore that primarily feeds on grasses and other plants. Their diet consists of tough and fibrous vegetation found in the grasslands and mountains of Central Asia. By consuming these plants, Kiangs play a crucial role in maintaining the health and balance of their ecosystem.

Locomotion of Kiang

The Kiang animal moves around using a special kind of locomotion. It has long legs which help it to run very fast. When the Kiang wants to move, it stretches out its legs and starts running. Its long legs help it take big steps and cover a lot of ground in a short time. This helps the Kiang escape from predators and find food easily.

The Kiang can also jump very high using its powerful hind legs. This allows it to overcome obstacles and reach higher places. When the Kiang runs, it keeps its body stable and its head and neck held high. This helps it maintain balance and prevents it from falling. The Kiang’s unique locomotion allows it to move quickly and efficiently in its natural habitat.

Social and Sexual Behaviour of Kiang

The Kiang animal has interesting social and sexual behaviors. They live in groups called herds, which are led by one dominant male called a stallion. The stallion protects and leads his herd, while the other males live in separate bachelor groups. This helps to avoid conflicts within the herd. The females, known as mares, stay with the herd and take care of the young ones.

When it comes to reproduction, the Kiang animal has a unique mating system. During the mating season, which occurs in spring and summer, the dominant stallion gathers a group of mares and keeps them close to him. He chases away any competing males so that he can mate with the females. This ensures that he passes on his genes to the next generation. The females only mate with the dominant stallion and can give birth after about 11 months of pregnancy.

In conclusion, the Kiang animal has a social structure where one dominant male leads a herd of females and youngsters, while other males form separate bachelor groups. During the mating season, the dominant stallion gathers a group of mares and mates exclusively with them. This helps in maintaining the dominance of the stallion and ensures the survival of the species. Understanding these social and sexual behaviors provides insights into the fascinating world of the Kiang animal.

Reproduction and Lifecycle of Kiang

The Kiang animal has a fascinating life cycle and way of reproducing. Their life cycle goes through three main stages: birth, growth, and reproduction. Let’s learn more about each of these stages.

In the first stage, a baby Kiang is born. This baby Kiang is called a foal. The foal is usually born in the safety of the grasslands where its mother gives birth. At first, the foal is unable to stand or walk. It relies on its mother for food and protection. After a few hours, the foal gains strength and starts to stand up and walk on its own. This is an exciting time for the foal as it begins to explore its surroundings.

As the foal grows, it enters the second stage of its life cycle. During this stage, the foal turns into a strong and healthy adult Kiang. It learns important skills from its parents, such as finding food and watching out for danger. The adult Kiang develops a thick coat that helps protect it from the harsh weather in the grasslands. It also learns to live in a herd, which provides safety and companionship.

Finally, in the last stage, the adult Kiang is ready to reproduce and continue the life cycle. The females, called mares, can give birth to a baby foal once a year. They find a safe place in the grasslands to give birth and raise their young. The life cycle begins again as the foal is born, grows, and becomes an adult Kiang.

In summary, the Kiang’s life cycle consists of three stages: birth, growth, and reproduction. The foal is born, grows into an adult Kiang, and then reproduces to continue the cycle. Each stage is important for the survival of the Kiang and ensures their population continues to thrive in the grasslands.

Threats to Kiang

The Kiang animal, found in the cold and barren plains of the Tibetan Plateau, faces several threats that endanger its survival. One major threat to the Kiang is habitat loss. As humans continue to expand their settlements and build infrastructure, the grasslands where the Kiang grazes are being destroyed. This leaves the Kiang with less space to live and find food, which can greatly impact their population.

Another threat to the Kiang is poaching. Sadly, there are people who kill these animals for their skin and meat. They do this to make money or for personal purposes. This illegal hunting has decreased the number of Kiangs in recent years. If poaching continues, the Kiang might become extinct, which means they would disappear from the Earth forever.

Furthermore, climate change is a significant threat to the Kiang. Due to global warming, the Tibetan Plateau is experiencing changes in its temperature and precipitation patterns. This affects the availability of water and food for the Kiang. They rely on the grass that grows in these regions, but if the climate becomes too extreme, the grass may not grow at all. This would put the Kiang at risk of starvation and make it even harder for them to survive.

In conclusion, the Kiang animal is facing threats that could lead to its extinction. The loss of its habitat, poaching, and climate change are all endangering the survival of this beautiful creature. It is important for us to take action to protect the Kiang and its natural habitat. We must raise awareness about these threats and support conservation efforts to ensure a future for the Kiang.

Population of Kiang

The population of the Kiang animal, also known as the Tibetan wild ass, is estimated to be around 65,000 to 70,000 individuals. These animals are found in the high-altitude regions of the Tibetan Plateau and surrounding areas in China, India, and Nepal. With their unique adaptations to extreme environments, such as a thick coat and large lungs, they can survive in harsh conditions with limited vegetation.

Unfortunately, if the Kiang were to become extinct, it would mean that there are no more of these animals alive. Extinction occurs when a species disappear completely, either due to natural causes or human activities. In the case of the Kiang, factors such as habitat loss, poaching for their skin and meat, and competition with livestock have put their population at risk. Conservation efforts and strict protection of their habitats are important to prevent the extinction of these fascinating creatures.

Overall, the population of the Kiang animal is currently estimated to be around 65,000 to 70,000 individuals. While they have managed to survive in extreme environments, they are facing threats that could lead to their extinction. It is crucial for us to recognize the importance of these animals and take steps to protect their habitats, ensuring that future generations can also witness their beauty and resilience in the wild.

Conclusion

To sum up, the Kiang is truly a remarkable animal. Found in the high-altitude regions of Central Asia, this large mammal is a member of the horse family. With a majestic appearance and a unique set of features, the Kiang has captured the curiosity and admiration of many.

The Kiang’s history dates back centuries, and its existence has played a significant role in the ecosystem of its habitat. From its distinctive physical characteristics, such as its long legs and sturdy body, to its strong social structure within herds, the Kiang has adapted exceptionally well to its surroundings. It is interesting to note that unlike other horses, the Kiang can survive in extreme cold temperatures.

As we conclude our exploration of the Kiang, it is important to recognize the importance of learning about different animals, including the Kiang. By understanding the characteristics, habitat, and importance of animals like the Kiang, we become more aware of the diverse world we live in. Let us continue to appreciate and protect these incredible creatures that share our planet and contribute to the overall balance of nature.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kiang (FAQ’s)

Q: What is a Kiang animal?
A: The Kiang animal, also known as the Tibetan wild ass, is a large mammal native to the Tibetan Plateau.

Q: What is the scientific name of the Kiang animal?
A: The scientific name of the Kiang animal is Equus kiang.

Q: What is the size of a Kiang animal?
A: The Kiang animal can reach a height of about 4 to 5 feet and a length of 8 to 9 feet.

Q: What is the average weight of a Kiang animal?
A: The average weight of a Kiang animal ranges from 250 to 400 kilograms.

Q: What is the habitat of the Kiang animal?
A: The Kiang animal inhabits the high-altitude grasslands, steppes, and montane meadows of the Tibetan Plateau.

Q: What is the diet of a Kiang animal?
A: The Kiang animal is a herbivore and mainly feeds on grasses, herbs, and shrubs.

Q: How fast can a Kiang animal run?
A: The Kiang animal is known for its speed and can reach speeds of up to 70 kilometers per hour (43 mph).

Q: Are Kiang animals social animals?
A: Yes, Kiang animals are known to live in small family groups comprised of a dominant male, several females, and their offspring.

Q: How long is the gestation period of a Kiang animal?
A: The gestation period of a Kiang animal lasts for about 10 to 12 months.

Q: How long do Kiang animals live?
A: Kiang animals have an average lifespan of around 15 to 20 years.

Q: Are Kiang animals endangered?
A: No, Kiang animals are currently listed as “Least Concern” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.

Q: What are some natural predators of the Kiang animal?
A: Natural predators of the Kiang animal include wolves, snow leopards, and Tibetan brown bears.

Q: Do Kiang animals migrate?
A: Yes, Kiang animals are known to undertake seasonal migrations in search of food and water.

Q: Can Kiang animals survive in extreme temperatures?
A: Yes, Kiang animals have adapted to survive in extreme temperatures, ranging from -40°C to 40°C (-40°F to 104°F).

Q: Can Kiang animals be found in other countries besides Tibet?
A: Yes, Kiang animals can also be found in regions of China, Nepal, and India.

Q: How many subspecies of Kiang animals are there?
A: Currently, two subspecies of Kiang animals are recognized, Equus kiang kiang and Equus kiang holdereri.

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