New Research Challenges Timeline of Cat Domestication
New genomic analysis of ancient cats suggests domestication may have occurred as late as 2,000 years ago, challenging prevailing theories on their origins.
Overview
New research challenges the long-held belief regarding the timeline of cat domestication, suggesting it may have occurred much later than previously thought.
Scientists propose that cats might have been domesticated as recently as 2,000 years ago, prompting a re-evaluation of their integration into human societies.
The study involved analyzing the genomes of 70 ancient cats, sourced from diverse geographical regions, to accurately trace their evolutionary origins.
Despite their domestication, cats still exhibit significant physical and behavioral similarities to their wild ancestors, highlighting their unique evolutionary journey.
These findings aim to provide a clearer understanding of the complex process through which cats transitioned from wild creatures to beloved household companions.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame this scientific story with a lighthearted, affectionate tone, emphasizing the enduring mystery and charm of cats. They use engaging language to make complex genetic research accessible, portraying cats as "lovable felines" and "superior beings," thereby enhancing reader connection to the scientific findings about their domestication journey.
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FAQ
Recent genomic analysis of 70 ancient cat remains from diverse regions suggests that domestication may have occurred as late as 2,000 years ago, challenging earlier theories that placed domestication much earlier. This new timeline is based on genetic similarities and differences between ancient and modern cats, indicating a more recent divergence from wild ancestors.
Previously, it was believed that cats were first domesticated in Egypt around 3,600 years ago, or even earlier in the Fertile Crescent about 10,000 years ago. The new research pushes the timeline back to as recent as 2,000 years ago, suggesting a much later and possibly more gradual process of domestication.
Unlike other domesticated animals, cats were not selectively bred for specific tasks like farming or herding. Instead, their domestication is thought to have been a mutualistic process, where cats benefited from food and shelter in human settlements, while humans benefited from pest control.
Agriculture led to the storage of grain, which attracted rodents. Wildcats, particularly the Near Eastern wildcat (*Felis silvestris lybica*), were drawn to human settlements to hunt these rodents, leading to a close relationship with humans and eventually domestication.
Yes, despite domestication, modern domestic cats still exhibit significant genetic and behavioral similarities to their wild ancestors, particularly the Near Eastern wildcat (*Felis silvestris lybica*), which is considered the main ancestor of domestic cats.
History
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