The reasons for domestication are vielfältig:
Food:
- Many plants and animals were domesticated for food, providing a reliable and convenient source of nutrition for humans.
Labor:
- Others were domesticated for their labor, to help with tasks such as transportation, farming, and hunting.
Companionship:
- Some animals were domesticated for companionship and emotional support.
Clothing:
- Certain plants and animals were grown or raised for the production of clothing and other materials.
Protection:
- Some animals, such as dogs, were domesticated for protection against predators and intruders.
Scientific research:
- In modern times, some animals have been domesticated for scientific research and experimentation.
Conservation:
- In certain cases, domestication can serve as a conservation strategy to preserve endangered species and maintain genetic diversity.
Aesthetics:
- Some species were kept and bred, mainly due to their visual appearance that humans favored as decorative or prized possessions.
Religious and cultural significance:
- Certain plants and animals were domesticated due to their spiritual or cultural importance within societies.