How are domesticated plants and animals different from the ancestors select the two answers
The two main differences between domesticated plants and animals from their ancestors are:
1. Genetic changes: Domesticated plants and animals have undergone genetic changes over many generations through selective breeding, leading to various physical and behavioral traits that are different from their wild ancestors. These changes are aimed at enhancing desirable characteristics such as productivity, size, docility, or taste.
2. Dependency on humans: Domesticated plants and animals have become dependent on humans for their survival and reproduction. They have adapted to living in close proximity to humans and are unable to thrive or reproduce in the wild without human intervention. This includes animals being reliant on humans for food and shelter, while plants rely on human farmers for cultivation and protection.
To understand how domesticated plants and animals differ from their ancestors, we need to compare certain characteristics that have typically changed during the domestication process:
1. Genetic Differences: Over generations of domestication, plants and animals have undergone genetic changes that distinguish them from their wild ancestors. Selective breeding, in which humans intentionally choose individuals with desired traits to reproduce, has led to the development of specific genetic traits in domesticated species, such as increased yield or docility.
2. Morphological Differences: Domesticated plants and animals often display distinct physical features compared to their wild ancestors. These changes can include variations in size, shape, color, or growth patterns, usually driven by human preferences or needs. For example, domesticated dogs can have varied physical traits compared to wild wolves, such as floppy ears or different coat colors and patterns.
To summarize, domesticated plants and animals differ from their ancestors in terms of both genetic and morphological characteristics, reflecting the long-term influence of human intervention through selective breeding and artificial selection.
1. Genetic selection: Domesticated plants and animals have undergone selective breeding by humans over generations to develop desired traits, such as increased yield, size, or productivity. This genetic selection has resulted in significant changes from their ancestors.
2. Adaptation to human environments: Domesticated plants and animals have evolved to thrive in human-controlled environments, such as farms, gardens, or homes. They have been conditioned to be dependent on humans for food, shelter, and reproduction, unlike their wild ancestors who are self-sustaining in natural ecosystems.