Is domestication a single-gene trait?
Marina R. Haynes and W. Ray Stricklin, University of Maryland, College
Park, MD
Domestication is typically defined as a process whereby a group of animals
become dependent upon humans for the continuance of their genetic kind.
Additionally, domestication is traditionally viewed as having progressed
through stages starting with the taming of a few animals and continuing
as the traits gradually change genetically as the animals become "more
domesticated." However, some research within recent years has implied that
domestication may be a rapid genetic change involving a complex of genes
that are possibly under the control of a "master gene". This complex of
genes affects many facets of behavior and morphology in the domesticated
species including: tameness, reaction to stress, coat color, facial morphology,
and social interactions. A correct understanding of the genetic basis of
domestication should enhance the ability of humans to efficiently and appropriately
use and maintain domesticated animals.