The Asian elephant, scientifically known as Elephas maximus, is one of the largest land mammals in the world and is native to various countries in Asia.

The Asian elephant distribution by country:

1. India: India is home to the largest population of Asian elephants, with significant numbers found across the country. They are distributed in various habitats, including forests, grasslands, and marshes, across states such as Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Assam, and West Bengal. National parks and wildlife reserves like Periyar Tiger Reserve, Nagarhole National Park, and Kaziranga National Park are important habitats for Indian elephants.
2. Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka is another country where Asian elephants are found. They inhabit a range of habitats including forests, savannas, and scrublands, particularly in areas like Udawalawe National Park, Minneriya National Park, and Yala National Park.
3. Nepal: Asian elephants are found in certain parts of Nepal, primarily in the lowland forests of the Terai region. Protected areas such as Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park provide habitat for elephants in Nepal.
4. Myanmar (Burma): Myanmar is home to a significant population of Asian elephants, found in various forested areas across the country. Elephants in Myanmar often live in protected areas such as Hukaung Valley Wildlife Sanctuary and Hlawga National Park.
5. Thailand: Asian elephants are native to Thailand and are found in forested areas and national parks throughout the country. Places like Khao Yai National Park, Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary, and Elephant Nature Park are known for their elephant populations.
6. Indonesia: In Indonesia, Asian elephants are found on the islands of Sumatra and Borneo. They inhabit forested areas and protected areas such as Gunung Leuser National Park in Sumatra and Kutai National Park in Borneo.
7. Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Malaysia: Asian elephants are also found in these countries, though in smaller numbers and fragmented populations. They inhabit various habitats including forests, grasslands, and wetlands.

Asian elephants are herbivores, feeding on a variety of vegetation including grasses, leaves, bark, and fruits. They play a crucial role in their ecosystems as seed dispersers and ecosystem engineers. However, they face threats from habitat loss, fragmentation, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching. Conservation efforts are underway to protect and preserve Asian elephant populations across their range.