Water buffalo

Water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis), also known as the Asian buffalo or domestic water buffalo, is a large bovid originating in the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and China. Today, it is also found in Europe, Australia, North America, South America, and some African countries. The wild water buffalo (Bubalus arnee) native to Southeast Asia is considered a different species, but most likely represents the ancestor of the domestic water buffalo.

Characteristics

Water buffaloes are characterized by their large size, heavy build, and long, curved horns. They are highly adapted to a watery environment, and prefer to live in marshy areas like swamps and river deltas. Their skin is black or dark grey, and they have sparse hair covering, which allows them to keep cool in hot climates.

Domestication and uses

Water buffaloes have been domesticated for thousands of years and are used for various purposes, including draught power, milk, meat, and hides. They are especially important in rice cultivation due to their ability to thrive in wet conditions. In addition, their milk is richer in fat and protein than that of dairy cows, making it highly valued for cheese production.

Species and subspecies

There are two main types of domestic water buffalo: the River buffalo, which has 50 chromosomes, and the Swamp buffalo, which has 48 chromosomes. These two types are believed to have been domesticated independently, and have significant differences in terms of morphology and behavior.

Conservation status

The wild water buffalo is considered endangered by the IUCN, with fewer than 4,000 individuals remaining in the wild. The main threats to their survival include habitat loss, hunting, and hybridization with domestic water buffaloes.

See also

• Bovid
• Domestication
• Rice cultivation
• Cheese production