Philippine Native Carabao And Riverine Buffalo Identified As Distinct Species

Traditionally classified as subspecies of Bubalus bubalis, these two domesticated buffalo types have been shown to have different DNA sequences and chromosome numbers.

A female Philippine native carabao or swamp buffalo with her calf in Pitogo Island, Bohol. Photo Credit: Lilian P. Villamor

Recent research by Filipino scientists has established that the native Philippine carabao and riverine buffalo represent distinct species. Traditionally classified as subspecies of Bubalus bubalis, these two domesticated buffalo types—swamp buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis carabanensis) and riverine buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis bubalis)—have been shown to have different DNA sequences and chromosome numbers.

According to the findings of researchers from the University of the Philippines—Diliman College of Science’s Institute of Biology and the Department of Agriculture—Philippine Carabao Center, notable physical distinctions between the species have also been documented. Dr. Lilian Villamor, a participating researcher, stated, “Swamp buffaloes can be identified by the white or light gray markings on their lower jaw and brisket, known as a chevron, as well as their lighter skin and coat colour compared to riverine buffaloes. They are also smaller, weighing between 325 and 450 kg, and have crescent-shaped horns. They are mainly used as draught animals.” In contrast, river buffaloes are larger, typically weighing between 450 and 1,000 kg, with curly horns, and are primarily reared for milk and meat production.

As a result of these studies, the Philippine native carabao is now proposed to be classified under the name Bubalus kerabau Fitzinger, 1860. Dr. Ian Kendrich Fontanilla, another researcher, remarked that “the reclassification of the Bubalus bubalis carabanensis to Bubalus kerabau Fitzinger, 1860, supports earlier assumptions that riverine and swamp buffaloes are distinct. Confusions on the classifications of the two buffaloes have implications on the breeding program of these species.”

The research further suggests that future investigations may examine crossbred buffalo chromosomes to enhance understanding of the genetic relationships between these buffalo types and to refine the classification of Bubalus bubalis. The study titled “Molecular Data and Karyotype Revealed Two Distinct Species of Domesticated Water Buffaloes in the Philippines” has been published in the Philippine Journal of Science, which is a reputable open-access, peer-reviewed journal specialising in natural sciences, engineering, mathematics, and social sciences.