[4] The extinct Bubalus grovesi of southern Sulawesi appears to be a close relative of both anoa species.

According to Groves (1969), the lowland anoa can be told apart from the other species by being larger, having a triangular horn cross-section, having sparse as opposed to thick and woolly hair, and always having white markings on the face and legs.

Reasons for their decline include hunting for hides, horns, and meat by the local peoples and loss of habitat due to the advancement of settlement.

[3] Logging is a large issue because both species prefer core forested habitats that are far away from humans and the influences that come with them.

By logging, humans create much more fragmented habitats and, therefore, a decrease in the area where the anoa can breed and live.