Do domestication and captivity have different
implications or are they simply parts of a spectrum related to extraction from
natural habitats? While the former is traditionally associated with “directed”
character development through selected breeding, such approaches have permeated
much of captive animal husbandry.Should captive animals be excluded from phylogenetic,
morphological or behavior studies as they are “atypical” and do not represent
the natural state? Domestication has been associated with paedomorphosis, withalterations of appearance including facial “simplification,” subcutaneous fataccumulation.Brain and body size and character are altered. Genetic
variability is reduced.
A protected environment reduces the need for skills and
behavior related to predator recognition, response and related defensive
behavior. Animals become more responsive to human contact and may even initiateit. Alterations are not limited to behavior but may also have physiologic
effects. Litter size also is increased in captive callitrichids. Ability of
Leontopitheus rosalia, the golden lion tamarin, raised in captivity to orient
to new environments (e.g., in captive-release programs) was compromised.
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