April 26, 2024, 10:30 pm

Ancient DNA Reveals Cattle Hybrids on the Tibetan Plateau

New research published in the journal Science Advances has revealed that ancient cattle on the Tibetan Plateau were hybrids of wild and domestic species.

The study, led by researchers from the University of Copenhagen, analyzed the DNA of ancient cattle bones found at archaeological sites across the Tibetan Plateau. The bones were dated to between 5,500 and 1,500 years ago, and the DNA analysis revealed that the cattle were a mix of wild yaks and domestic cattle.

This is the first evidence that cattle hybrids were present on the Tibetan Plateau in ancient times. The researchers believe that the hybrids were created by herders who crossbred wild yaks with domestic cattle in order to create a more adaptable and productive animal.

The findings of this study have implications for our understanding of the history of cattle domestication and the spread of agriculture in the Tibetan Plateau. They also provide new insights into the relationship between humans and animals in ancient times.

Key Findings

• Ancient cattle on the Tibetan Plateau were hybrids of wild yaks and domestic cattle.
• The hybrids were created by herders who crossbred wild yaks with domestic cattle in order to create a more adaptable and productive animal.
• The findings of this study have implications for our understanding of the history of cattle domestication and the spread of agriculture in the Tibetan Plateau.
• They also provide new insights into the relationship between humans and animals in ancient times.