From which geographic region do Zebu cattle trace their origins?
Answer
The Indian subcontinent
The earliest known domestication of Zebu cattle occurred thousands of years ago on the Indian subcontinent. Archaeological evidence points to this region as the ancestral homeland of these animals, where they were first domesticated from the wild Indian aurochs, *Bos primigenius*. Their subsequent resilience and ability to thrive in heat allowed human populations to move them effectively across territories into Africa and eastward into Southeast Asia.
Related Questions
What is the scientific classification for Zebu cattle?What specific anatomical feature sits over the shoulders of *Bos primigenius indicus*?How does the Zebu's dewlap aid in surviving high temperatures?From which geographic region do Zebu cattle trace their origins?What characteristic of the Zebu hair coat helps manage thermal load?Which specific Zebu breed is noted for maturing to weigh only 200 to 300 pounds?What nutritional advantage do Zebu offer over many other cattle types regarding forage?Besides meat and milk, what vital role did Zebu serve in early human societies?How do Zebu ears typically compare to those of Taurine Cattle (*Bos taurus*)?What management adjustments are necessary when keeping Zebu outside their native tropical range?