Evolution of erect growth forms in domesticated wheats: possible effects of grazing

Wild wheats tend to have a prostrate growthform during the early part of their vegetative growth phase. However, at a later stage the leaves and spike-bearing stalks change the pattern of growth and develop in an erect position. Domesticated wheats develop differently, with an erect growth form dominating the entire growth phase.It is suggested that heavy grazing, especially during early winter months might have played a role in the eradication of spontaneously appearing erect mutants of wild wheat. Such mutants increased in frequency only under domestication.