Human activity may influence the distribution and transmission of Bartonella bacteria
A study by Hannah Frank and colleagues reveals humans play a significant role in changing infection patterns, including spillover from animals to humans.
Domesticated Animals
Articles tagged with Domesticated Animals
3,500-year-old pumpkin spice? Archaeologists find the earliest use of nutmeg as a food
Researchers found nutmeg residue on ceramic potsherds at a 3,500-year-old archaeological site in Indonesia. The discovery provides new insights into the early use of nutmeg and its impact on international trade.
Dog intelligence 'not exceptional'
Researchers found cognitive abilities of dogs matched by several species in domestic animals, social hunters, and carnivorans. The study suggests dogs' reputation as intelligent creatures may be overhyped.
Silver fox study reveals genetic clues to social behavior
A new Cornell University-led study has identified genes that were altered in tame animals in two areas of the brain involved with learning and memory. Genes impacting serotonergic and glutaminergic neurons, important for learning and memory, were clearly affected by selection toward tameness.
Dry landscapes can increase disease transmission
In water-limited landscapes, sick animals may have more contact with others due to lethargy, leading to faster pathogen transmission. The study suggests that understanding sickness behavior can help predict and control disease transmission in wildlife and domestic animals.
Early evidence of use of a bit on domestic donkeys found in the Near East
Researchers discovered tooth wear linked to bit-wearing on ancient donkey remains from the Early Bronze Age (EB) period. The findings suggest that donkeys may have worn bits as early as 2700 BCE, long before the introduction of horses.
Archaeologists uncover earliest evidence for equid bit wear in the ancient Near East
The discovery provides first evidence of the use of a bridle bit to control an animal in the Near East before the appearance of horses. The study reveals that early domestic donkeys were controlled using soft bits, likely made from rope or wood.
New DNA screening reveals whose blood the vampire bat is drinking
A new DNA method efficiently screens vampire bat blood meal and faecal samples to determine which domestic animals they feed on, while also assessing population structure. This technique may aid in preventing rabies exposure by identifying animal hosts at risk.
Agriculture initiated by indigenous peoples, not Fertile Crescent migration
Researchers at the University of Liverpool discovered that small-scale farming was initiated by indigenous communities in Turkey's Anatolian plateau, contradicting previous theories. The study found evidence of crop cultivation and herding of sheep and goats, suggesting a stable and persistent use of crops for over 5 centuries.
Domestic goat dating back to the Neolithic Corded Ware period identified in Finland
Researchers discovered a fossilized hair from a goat dated back to the Neolithic Corded Ware period, shedding new light on mortuary practices and animal husbandry of the culture. The find supports evidence that domestic animals were kept during this time period in Finland.
Horses can read our body language even when they don't know us
A study published in Animal Cognition found that horses prefer to approach humans with submissive body postures over dominant ones. This preference is thought to be an instinctual understanding of larger vs. smaller postures, as seen in evolutionary communication.
Welfare of zoo animals set to improve
Researchers have developed a new welfare assessment grid to help zookeepers monitor the physical and psychological wellbeing of animals in their care. The grid provides daily monitoring of factors such as environment quality and daily procedures, enabling zookeepers to identify potential problems and improve animal welfare.
Census shows which mammals survive in forests surrounded by sugarcane plantations
A census of medium and large mammals found in 22 forest remnants surrounded by sugarcane plantations in São Paulo State, Brazil revealed that 90% of expected species were recorded. The study found rare animals such as the giant armadillo not present, but generalist species like white-eared opossums adapted to disturbed environments.
Shearing of alpacas is necessary, but also stressful
A new study by Vetmeduni Vienna found that shearing alpacas in a standing position produces the least amount of stress for the animals. The research team used clinical parameters and saliva/faeces cortisol levels to measure stress, finding that restraint without shearing had no significant impact on these values.
How domestication altered the genome of ancient horses
Analyses of 14 ancient horse genomes reveal that domestication led to changes in forelimbs and coat colors, as well as the presence of genetic variants associated with milk production for human consumption. The study suggests that early domestication was not limited to a small group of stallions but involved multiple founders.
Highly contagious infection threatens endangered San Joaquin kit fox population
Scientists have identified a highly contagious disease threatening the endangered San Joaquin kit fox population. Researchers confirmed diagnosis of sarcoptic mange in 15 kit foxes and found no evidence of recovery from untreated infections.
Can North American animals such as rabbits, cows, or pigs serve as hosts for Zika virus?
A new study investigated the potential role of North American animals as hosts for Zika virus. Researchers tested common animal species, including goats, pigeons, raccoons, and ducks, for infectious virus presence and antibodies. The findings suggest that these animals may serve as an unseen reservoir for Zika virus in urban environments.
When horses are in trouble they ask humans for help
Research at Kobe University found that horses send signals to humans both visually and physically when faced with unsolvable problems, adapting their behavior based on humans' knowledge. This high social cognitive ability may have been acquired during domestication, enabling horses to form close bonds with humans.
A new pathogen in Africa causes anthrax-like disease in wild and domestic animals
A new pathogen, Bacillus cereus biovar anthracis, has been identified as causing anthrax-like disease in chimps, gorillas, elephants, and goats across four African countries. The bacteria share distinct genetic and biological characteristics with Bacillus anthracis.
Ancient DNA evidence traces origin of horses' smooth ride
Researchers discovered that ambling horses first appeared in Medieval England, where they were bred by Vikings and later distributed globally. The genetic study found a specific variant of the DMRT3 gene associated with gaitedness in ancient horse remains.
Ancient DNA analysis explains spread of domestic goats from Fertile Crescent into Caucasus
Researchers found domestic goats in the Southern Caucasus match with wild goats from the Fertile Crescent, suggesting introduction of already-domesticated goats. Genetic sequencing reveals sudden cultural changes and agriculture adoption around 7,500-8,000 years ago.
Adversity forges unlikely friendship between hyenas, wolves
Researchers observed striped hyenas joining grey wolf packs in the Negev desert, suggesting a mutually beneficial relationship. The unlikely alliance may have arisen from necessity, with hyenas utilizing their keen sense of smell and wolves leveraging their agility to tackle prey.
Simulator-based training in veterinary medicine
A recent study by Vetmeduni Vienna's Centre for Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer found that simulator-based training in large animal gynaecology is nearly as efficient as animal-based training. Students who trained four times on horses scored best with regard to a correct diagnosis, while those trained solely on the simulato...
Let's go wild: How ancient communities resisted new farming practices
Research reveals that domesticated grains were adopted late and sporadically in North Africa, with communities instead integrating them into their existing nomadic lifestyle. This challenges the conventional narrative of a gradual transition to settled agriculture.
SUNY Downstate researchers identify areas of plague risk in western US
SUNY Downstate researchers identified areas of high probability of plague bacteria in the western United States. Their findings can be used by public health agencies to target specific areas for enhanced plague surveillance, particularly in regions with significant animal hosts.
Loss of mastodons aided domestication of pumpkins, squash
Research suggests that wild pumpkin and squash were initially used for non-food purposes, such as containers and tools, before humans discovered their edible value. The loss of megafauna allowed wild plants to grow in new environments, leading to the evolution of palatability.
Scientists win $6.4 million to probe smell navigation
Researchers aim to create a 'smellscape' to understand how critters navigate by scent and convert odors into spatial information. They will use computational modeling to simulate odor navigation processes and test their models on diverse species.
Ancient hybridization key to domestic dog's origin, wolf conservation efforts
A new study proposes a logical classification scheme for dogs and wolves, revealing that domestic dogs are descendants of two interbred species: an extinct Asian wild dog and the grey wolf. This finding has implications for wolf conservation, as some hybrids have evolved into full species.
Pupil shape linked to animals' ecological niche
A study of 214 species finds that vertical slits indicate ambush predators, while horizontally elongated pupils suggest grazing prey. Researchers believe this shapes allows for optimal vision in dim light and panoramic view.
Griffon vultures are exposed to high concentrations of lead in their diets
A study found that Griffon vultures in Catalonia have high levels of lead in their tissues, affecting their immune systems and reproductive function. The birds' diet, which mainly consists of carrion from domestic and wild hunting species, increases their likelihood of ingesting lead.
University of Louisville leads new study to map disease genes in horses
Researchers are developing a new reference genome sequence for domestic horses to better understand genetics in animal health and well-being. The new sequence aims to improve the ability to identify diseases and traits in horses.
Ouch! When teeth and hands connect, bites may be beastly
Human bites can transmit over 600 bacterial species through oral flora, posing a significant risk of infection. Prompt treatment within 24 hours of an animal or human bite is crucial to prevent serious injury or infection, with antibiotic treatment recommended for hand bites to reduce the risk of infection and disability.
Genes contribute to behavior differences between fierce and friendly rats
Researchers found eight genome regions that contributed to tameness and aggression, including genes involved in nervous system development. The study sheds light on the genetic basis of domestication and its impact on animal behavior.
Big data approach identifies Europe's most dangerous human and domestic animal pathogens
Researchers used a 'big data' approach to rank top 100 pathogens affecting humans and animals, with E.coli and HIV taking top spots. The Hirsch Index method aggregates scientific work on diseases to guide policy at a continent-wide level.
New model helps explain how provisions promote or reduce wildlife disease
A new mathematical model helps understand how resource provisioning affects wildlife disease, with findings that more food doesn't always lead to better health outcomes. The research highlights the importance of considering the complex interactions between food availability, immune defense, and disease transmission.
Eradicating fatal sleeping sickness by killing off the tsetse fly
Researchers have successfully used computer models to locate and eliminate high numbers of tsetse flies in Senegal, resulting in a 99.6% reduction. The eradication effort aims to control the devastating disease that affects humans, livestock, and wildlife.
Brain size matters when it comes to animal self-control
A new study of 36 species found that brain volume – not body size – is the key to self-restraint. Animals with varied diets showed superior cognitive powers, while those with larger brains were more likely to inhibit counter-productive behavior.
Elephants know what it means to point, no training required
Researchers found that African elephants can use human pointing cues to find hidden food, demonstrating an understanding of this complex gesture. This study reveals that the ability to understand pointing is not unique to humans but has evolved in a lineage of animals.
'Images of the inside of a fly' elected as computed microtomography's Best Film of the Year
University of Granada Professor Javier Alba-Tercedor has won the Best Film award for his detailed images of a domestic fly's inside using microtomography. The high-resolution scans were made possible by a Skyscan 1172 micro-CT instrument, achieving 1.4 µm per pixel resolution.
Widespread but neglected disease a health threat in Africa, Virginia Tech researchers say
Researchers at Virginia Tech have identified leptospirosis as a significant health threat in Botswana, where the disease can cause flu-like symptoms, meningitis, and even death if untreated. The pathogen was found in banded mongoose, which can transmit the disease to humans through contaminated water or soil.
Human disease leptospirosis identified in new species, the banded mongoose, in Africa
Researchers found that the banded mongoose in Botswana carries Leptospira interrogans, the pathogen that causes leptospirosis. The study highlights the widespread but neglected disease as a significant public health risk in Africa.
Pig gene discovery could help combat animal and human disease
Researchers compared the genomes of domestic pigs with wild boars to reveal genetic differences that could improve pig health and combat diseases like diabetes, obesity, and Alzheimer's. The study also identified genes linked to smell, shedding light on human diseases.
How the cat got his blotches
Researchers discovered a gene called Taqpep that helps establish periodic patterns like stripes or spots in felines. Variations in the Edn3 gene are responsible for dark hair color, suggesting a link between genetic mechanisms and animal coat patterns.
Neolithic man: The first lumberjack?
The Neolithic Age saw a direct connection between the development of an agricultural society and the emergence of sophisticated carpentry. Archaeological evidence suggests that as humans transitioned from hunter-gatherers to farmers, they also developed heavier axes and woodworking tools capable of felling trees.
From aflatoxin to sake
Researchers mapped genetic differences between domesticated fungus Aspergillus oryzae and its wild relative, finding extensive genome remodeling. The study suggests microbes undergo metabolic changes for desired functions rather than growth and form alterations.
Sake, soy sauce, and the taming of the microbes
Researchers found that domesticated fungi, used to brew sake and soy sauce, have undergone extensive metabolic remodeling. This process led to the suppression of toxins and the evolution into 'cell factories' for enzymes and metabolites.
Wild birds respond differently to the first long days of a year
Research reveals that great tit populations from central and North Europe have distinct gene activity responses to long days, influenced by latitude. This difference affects their reproductive cycles and ability to adapt to climate change.
Ancient cooking pots reveal gradual transition to agriculture
Researchers analyzed ancient pottery for signs of terrestrial, marine, and freshwater organisms, finding that fish and aquatic resources continued to be exploited after the advent of farming. This suggests a gradual transition from hunting to agriculture in Western Europe, challenging previous assumptions about the abrupt shift.
Archaeologist argues world's oldest temples were not temples at all
Ancient structures at Göbekli Tepe in Turkey were initially thought to be the world's oldest temples, but an archaeologist argues they may have been large communal houses instead. The presence of art and decoration does not necessarily mean the buildings were exclusively religious spaces.
Dual parasitic infections deadly to marine mammals
A study of 161 marine mammal tissue samples reveals an association between severe illness and co-infection with two parasites, Sarcocystis neurona and Toxoplasma gondii. The infections caused more severe disease symptoms in animals infected with both parasites.
Cats pass disease to wildlife, even in remote areas
Researchers discovered infected cats and wildlife with Toxoplasma gondii in a natural area, suggesting feral cats are the source of infection. The parasite is shed in cat feces and transmitted to animals through soil, water, or contact with infected animals.
First French bulldog with sex reversal identified in Spain
A three-month-old female French bulldog was found to have cryptorchid testicles and a large clitoris, revealing the first ever genetic alteration in this breed. The puppy underwent surgical sterilisation to prevent medical complications.
New molecular imaging technologies for detecting cellular processes
A new molecular imaging technology has been developed by researchers at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid to detect live cellular processes. This technology differs from conventional medical imaging, allowing for earlier detection of anomalies and facilitating treatment.
Training the trainers: How to minimize stress when horses are first ridden
Research by Alice Schmidt examined stress in young horses during initial training, finding that mounting is a significant source of stress. However, exercise and proper training can alleviate stress levels over time. Gentle handling from the start is crucial to develop a strong bond between horse and rider.
Breeding changing dog brains
Researchers found that short-snouted dog breeds have rotating brains up to 15 degrees, while the olfactory lobe has relocated, affecting smell perception. The study highlights unique plasticity in the canine genome due to human intervention through breeding.
Ancient DNA identifies donkey ancestors, people who domesticated them
The study found that the African wild ass is the living ancestor of today's domestic donkeys and that a subspecies called the Nubian wild ass may still exist. Researchers used mitochondrial DNA samples from living animals, skeletons, and archaeological sites to trace the family trees of the domestic donkey.
New hypothesis for human evolution and human nature
Paleoanthropologist Pat Shipman suggests that humans' ability to nurture other animal species contributed to the development of language and tool-making, ultimately leading to domestication. This 'animal connection' allowed early humans to develop a system of communication and observation, which became increasingly advantageous over time.
New strain of virulent airborne fungi, unique to Oregon, is set to spread
A newly discovered strain of virulent airborne fungi has caused several deaths in Oregon and is expected to spread to California and other areas. The fungal disease, Cryptococcus gattii, typically affects transplant recipients and HIV-infected patients, but the new strain appears to be a threat to otherwise healthy individuals.
Guinea pigs not 'dumbed down' by domestication
Researchers found that domestic guinea pigs excelled in a water maze test due to their improved ability to decipher guidance symbols, while wild cavies were stronger swimmers. The study suggests an adaptation in domesticated animals for efficient problem-solving in human-made environments.
The bigger the animal, the stiffer the 'shoes'
New research reveals the mechanical properties of footpads vary predictably across animal sizes, with bigger critters requiring stiffer shoes. The study found that larger animals have softer pads on rear feet, which may help them recover energy from each step and enhance propulsion.