20th August 2024
Domesticators
One thing humans have done is to domesticate plants and animals. This is trait is not unique to humans. Whilst we domesticated dogs to help us both with hunting and to guard our homes and – when we had domesticated sheep – our flocks, other creatures too have domesticated plants and creatures to improve their lives.
For example leaf cutter ants have domesticated particular fungi by feeding them freshly cut plants and protecting them from pests and moulds (by secreting an antibacterial chemical). The ants then use the fungi to feed their themselves and their young.
Once domesticated, that plant or creature may not be able to thrive without its domesticator. Domestication can nevertheless help creatures control their habitat in a way that can be mutually beneficial.
The Green Tau 