True Buffalo (Genus Bubalus)
* Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis): These are the large, water-loving buffalo found in Asia and Africa. They are domesticated for milk, meat, and labor.
* Anoa (Bubalus depressicornis and Bubalus quarlesi): These are the smallest buffalo species, found only in Indonesia. They are endangered.
American Bison (Bison bison)
* American Bison (Bison bison): These are the large, shaggy animals often called "buffalo" in North America. They are not true buffalo but belong to a separate genus.
African Buffalo (Syncerus caffer)
* African Buffalo (Syncerus caffer): These are the large, horned buffalo found in Africa. They are closely related to the Indian Gaur.
Other Animals Called "Buffalo"
* Cape Buffalo (Syncerus caffer caffer): This is a subspecies of the African buffalo.
* Forest Buffalo (Syncerus caffer nanus): Another subspecies of the African buffalo.
So, which species are "buffalo"?
It depends on the context. If you're talking about the animals in North America, you're likely referring to the American Bison. If you're talking about animals in Asia and Africa, you're likely referring to water buffalo or African buffalo.
To avoid confusion, it's always best to specify the species you're talking about by using its scientific name or a more specific common name.