New findings reveal dogs were likely first domesticated from wolves in the Middle East
A study conducted by the Center for Tropical Research's Robert K. Wayne is featured in The New York Times.
The research team analyzed a large collection of wolf and dog genomes from around the world, scanning for similar runs of DNA. They found that the Middle East was where wolf and dog genomes were most similar. Dr. Wayne believes that wolves began following hunter-gatherer bands to feed on the wounded prey, carcasses or other refuse. At some stage a group of wolves, who happened to be smaller and less threatening than most, developed a dependency on human groups, and may in return have provided a warning system.
To read the full article in The New York Times by Nicholas Wade click here.
Published: Thursday, March 18, 2010
