What is buffalo animal in india?

The Indian buffalo, also known as the water buffalo, is a domesticated animal species that is widely raised for milk, meat, and draught purposes across India.

Physical Characteristics:

• They have a large and stocky build with a shiny black skin, huge curved horns, long snout, and small ears.
• Male buffaloes are larger and stronger than females, and can weigh up to 800 to 1200 kg, while females weigh around 400 to 620 kg.
• They have broader and thicker hooves, which are adapted for walking in wet and muddy terrains.

Habitat and Distribution:

• Indian buffaloes are commonly found in the northern, central and eastern regions of India.
• They thrive in the regions of India that have abundant grazing lands and waterbodies, such as marshes, swamps, and rivers.

Behavior and Diet:

• They are social animals and live in herds ranging from 10 to 20 individuals.
• Buffaloes are herbivores and mainly feed on grasses, leaves, and water plants.
• They are well-adapted to walking long distances in search of food and water and can swim across rivers and streams.

Importance to Indian Economy:

• The Indian buffalo is an important animal in the agricultural-based economy of India.
• The country is the world's largest producer of buffalo milk, which is rich in protein and fat and is used to make various dairy products such as cheese, yogurt and butter.
• Besides milk production, buffaloes are also used for transportation and ploughing in rural areas.