Systematics of the Anoa (Mammalia, Bovidae)

The systematic position of the Anoa is discussed, with reference to its nomenclature and taxonomic history. Two distinct types of Anoa are found all over Celebes, a large one with white legs, long tail and rugged horns, and a small one with legs mainly the same colour as the body, short tail and conical horns. There is some indication that the small Anoa inhabits mountainous areas. In the absence of any evidence of intergradation they must be classed as two distinct species; since the Anoa is closely related to the Indian Buffalo and the Tamarao, the two must be called Bubalus (Anoa) depressicornis and B. (A.) quarlesi.