Little-known Asian animals with a promising economic future

This report describes ten bovine species and five species of pigs or pig-like animals indigenous to Asia which appear to have long-term potential as livestock resources. Both domesticated and wild animals are included. The domesticated bovines discussed include banteng and banteng-cattle hybrids (maduras), mithan, yak, and yak-cattle hybrids (yakows). Wild bovines include wild banteng, gaur, kouprey, tamaraw, and anoas. Pig species include the bearded pig, Sulawesi and Javan warty pigs, pygmy hog, and babirusa. For each species, general information is provided on appearance and size, distribution, status, habitat, biology, behavior, uses, potential advantages, limitations, and research and conservation needs. It is noted that new biotechnological techniques such as embryo transplants, which may soon be permitted without elaborate quarantine restrictions, can help develop disease resistance in these species, some of which are already threatened or endangered, and so enhance their use. A 159-item bibliography (1922-82) is appended.