The First Ancient DNA Evidence of Zebu Husbandry in Thailand During the Prehistoric Through the Historic Periods

Ancient DNA analysis reveals that zebu cattle, not taurine breeds, were the primary livestock in Thailand as early as 1700 years ago. This challenges previous assumptions that taurine cattle dominated prehistoric Thai agriculture. Researchers analyzed cattle remains from nine archaeological sites across Thailand, successfully sequencing samples from Khao Khuram (1700-1500 YBP) and Sukhothai Historical Park (850-650 YBP). Phylogenetic and haplotype network analyses confirmed these remains belonged to the zebu lineage, genetically matching modern zebu cattle from India, China, and Cambodia. The study suggests zebu cattle were introduced into Thailand from India via overland or maritime routes, reshaping our understanding of livestock husbandry in Southeast Asia.

Yensookjai, P., Prachumsarn, S., Sangtubsorn, N., Katanyuphan, Y., Boonleang, P., Krajaejun, P., Wattanapituksakul, A., & Surat, W. (2026). The First Ancient DNA Evidence of Zebu Husbandry in Thailand During the Prehistoric Through the Historic Periods. Animals, 16(12), 1904. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16121904