Domesticated species

Definition

Domesticated species are plants and animals that have been selectively bred and genetically adapted over generations for human use, including food, labor, and companionship. This adaptation typically involves changes in behavior, morphology, and physiology that enhance their suitability for life alongside humans, making them essential for agricultural societies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Domesticated species played a crucial role in the development of settled agricultural societies by providing reliable sources of food and labor.
2. Common domesticated animals include dogs, cattle, sheep, pigs, and chickens, while staple crops include wheat, rice, corn, and barley.
3. The process of domestication typically involves a long-term relationship between humans and wild ancestors of these species, leading to behavioral changes like reduced aggression.
4. Domestication has led to significant genetic variations within species that make them more suitable for agricultural practices compared to their wild counterparts.
5. The success of domesticated species has had profound impacts on human populations, including increased food security and the ability to support larger communities.

Review Questions

• How do domesticated species contribute to the development of early agricultural societies?
  • Domesticated species were integral to the rise of early agricultural societies by providing consistent food sources and labor. By selectively breeding plants and animals that thrived in specific environments, humans could establish stable food supplies. This allowed communities to settle in one place instead of constantly moving in search of wild resources, enabling population growth and the development of complex social structures.
• Discuss the genetic changes that occur during the domestication process of species and their implications for agricultural practices.
  • During the domestication process, selective breeding leads to genetic changes that often result in physical traits like size and temperament that are advantageous for human use. For instance, crops may become larger or produce more yield, while animals may exhibit docility or increased productivity. These genetic modifications not only enhance the utility of domesticated species but also create challenges related to biodiversity loss as reliance on a limited number of domesticated varieties increases.
• Evaluate the social and economic impacts of relying on domesticated species within ancient civilizations.
  • Relying on domesticated species significantly shaped the social and economic landscapes of ancient civilizations. This reliance facilitated the emergence of agriculture-based economies, allowing for surplus food production that supported population growth. As communities settled and specialized in various crafts, social stratification developed. Additionally, trade networks flourished due to agricultural surpluses, fostering cultural exchanges. However, dependence on specific domesticated species also made societies vulnerable to crop failures or disease outbreaks.

Related terms

Animal husbandry: The practice of breeding and raising livestock for food, fiber, and labor, which relies heavily on domesticated species.

Agriculture:

The science and practice of cultivating soil, growing crops, and raising animals for food and other products, which fundamentally depends on domesticated plant and animal species.

Selective breeding: The process by which humans breed plants and animals for specific traits, leading to the development of domesticated species with desirable characteristics.