1. Physical Appearance:
- Robust and heavy-bodied, weighing up to 1,000 kg (2,200 lbs)
- Gray or black in color, though some may have lighter or darker shades
- Large, curved horns that can grow up to 2 meters (6.5 feet) in length
- Broad and flat head with a pronounced forehead
- Long and drooping ears
- Thick and loose skin, which helps in regulating body temperature in hot climates
2. Habitat:
- Prefers wetlands, floodplains, and marshy areas
- Often found near rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water
- Can adapt to a wide range of habitats, including grasslands and forests
3. Diet:
- Herbivorous, with a diet primarily composed of grasses, sedges, and aquatic plants
- Can also consume hay, crop residues, and other agricultural byproducts
- Known for their ability to digest fibrous and low-quality forage efficiently
4. Behavior:
- Usually docile and gentle in temperament, but can be aggressive if threatened
- Social animals that live in herds, with a dominant male leading the group
- Have a strong sense of territoriality and can be quite protective of their territory
5. Uses:
- Primarily used as draft animals for plowing fields, pulling carts, and transporting goods
- Also kept for dairy production and meat consumption
- In some regions, they are used for racing and entertainment purposes
6. Significance:
- Carabao play a crucial role in the agricultural economies of Southeast Asia, providing essential labor and food resources
- They are highly valued for their strength, endurance, and adaptability
- Culturally, carabao hold significant importance and are often regarded as symbols of strength and prosperity
7. Conservation:
- While carabao are generally not considered endangered, some populations have faced threats due to habitat loss, disease, and crossbreeding with other cattle breeds
- Conservation efforts are in place to protect and maintain the genetic diversity of carabao for future generations