ANCIENT DNA TELLS A TALE OF TWO CATS IN CHINA.

  • Published In: Science News, 2026, v. 208, n. 2. P. 24 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Brookshire, Bethany 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on the historical presence of cats in China, specifically examining the genetic lineage of house cats and their relationship with leopard cats. Research indicates that leopard cats (Prionailurus bengalensis) inhabited China between 5,400 and 1,900 years ago, pre-dating the arrival of house cats (Felis catus), which are descendants of the African wildcat (Felis lybica). Genetic analysis of cat remains from various periods reveals that while leopard cats were common in early human settlements, they eventually disappeared from these sites around A.D. 200, coinciding with a tumultuous period in Chinese history. The article highlights the evolutionary dynamics that determine which animals adapt to human environments, suggesting that the domestic cat's tameness allowed it to thrive alongside humans, unlike the more elusive leopard cat. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Science News. 2026/02, Vol. 208, Issue 2, p24
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:History
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0036-8423
  • Accession Number:190728382
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