Domestication as a model system for the extended evolutionary synthesis

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary Biology
• Genetics
• Ecology

Background:

• Evaluating the extended evolutionary synthesis (EES) requires suitable model systems.
• The domestication of plants and animals presents a unique opportunity to study evolutionary processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore domestication as a model system for assessing the core assumptions of the EES.
• To investigate the insights provided by niche construction theory (NCT) into domestication.

Main Methods:

• Analyzing domestication processes through the lens of niche construction theory (NCT).
• Framing testable predictions contrasting EES-based and standard evolutionary theory for domestication.
• Examining how domestication exemplifies key EES concepts like reciprocal causation and inclusive inheritance.

Main Results:

• Niche construction theory offers novel insights into domestication concerning coevolution, evolvability, ecological inheritance, cooperation, and evolutionary pace.
• Domestication provides a framework for testing predictions that differentiate EES from standard evolutionary theory.
• Domestication illustrates the expanded understanding of evolution offered by EES, including developmental processes and inclusive inheritance.

Conclusions:

• Domestication serves as a valuable model system for the extended evolutionary synthesis (EES).
• Niche construction theory significantly enhances our understanding of domestication and evolutionary change.
• The EES framework, exemplified by domestication, provides a more comprehensive view of evolutionary mechanisms.