Lecture 2 - Domestication

Question 1

Domestication definition

Answer 1

Domestication is the process whereby a population of animals is chabged at genetic level throigh a procuss of selection, in order to accentuate traits that benefit humans

Question 2

Not purely a matter of human will…?

Answer 2

Succesful domesticated species were ‘preadapted’ to be vital to future success in our homes and fields.

Question 3

History domestication of the horse

: Where?

Answer 3

Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Eastern or Western Europe

Question 4

History domestication of the horse

: When?

Answer 4

4000 BC (5.500 years ago)

Question 5

History domestication of the horse

: Why?

Answer 5

For meat, riding and transport

Question 6

Taming vs domestication

Answer 6

Taming is the process whereby animals become accustomed to human presence (individual level). Many animals can be tamed, only a few species are domesticated. Domestication > selection

Question 7

Important characteristics in domestication

Answer 7

Generalists: flexible diet, non territorial
Neoteny: curious, adaptable, submissive, playful

Question 8

Generalist are.. (1st step)

Answer 8

Social, non territorial, simple courtship, variety diet

Question 9

Mutual adaption (2nd step)

Answer 9

Coevolution

Question 10

Human invention (3rd step)

Answer 10

Breeding animals in captivity, selective breeding and artificial selection

Question 11

Selective breeding / artificial selection

Answer 11

Choosing parent with particular characteristics to breed together and produce offspring with desired traits

Question 12

What is neoteny?

Answer 12

Retaining features of juvenile behaviour. Retention of immature characteristics in adulthood.

Curious, adaptable, submissive, playful, dependent

Question 13

Direct evidence

Answer 13

Artistic, textual > needs time

Question 14

Indirect evidence

Answer 14

Bones, artifacts > needs analysis