Tracing the domestication dynamics of Sus scrofa populations during the liangzhu culture periods: Insights from molar morphology analysis

A new analysis of molar morphology reveals that Sus scrofa populations during the middle and late Liangzhu culture periods exhibited traits consistent with domestication, particularly in smaller M2 sizes akin to modern domestic pigs. Geometric morphometric analysis further highlighted distinct molar shapes between wild boars and domestic pigs, with intermediate forms observed in archaeological specimens from Bianjiashan and Meirendi. These findings suggest probable domestication practices, including potential hybridization or importation of Sus scrofa remains, during this period. The study sheds light on human-animal interactions, domestication strategies, and regional variations in prehistoric pig populations.

Dai, L., Song, S., Liu, B., Zhao, Y., & Wei, P. (2024). Tracing the domestication dynamics of Sus scrofa populations during the liangzhu culture periods: Insights from molar morphology analysis. Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports, 59, 104777. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jasrep.2024.104777