Mouflon and Domestic Sheep Phylogeny: Ancestry, Domestication, and Evolutionary Dynamics

The ancestry of domestic species from their closest wild relatives is one of the most debated and intriguing topics in evolutionary genetics. This review synthesizes current scientific understanding of the phylogenetic relationships between wild mouflon populations and domestic sheep (Ovis aries). It delves into the complex ancestry, tracing the primary role of the Asiatic mouflon (Ovis gmelini) as the progenitor, while also addressing the debated contributions of other wild Ovis species. The report explores the insights gained from diverse genetic markers, including mitochondrial DNA haplogroups and comprehensive whole-genome sequencing, highlighting their strengths, limitations, and the resolution of phylogenetic discrepancies. The multi-faceted taming process is examined, discussing proposed evolutionary mechanisms such as the domestication syndrome and thyroid hormone hypotheses, alongside human-mediated selection for key phenotypic traits like horn morphology, coat type, and tail characteristics. Furthermore, the pervasive role of hybridization and introgression between wild and domestic populations is analyzed, detailing its impact on genetic distinctiveness, adaptive potential, and the critical implications for conservation strategies. Finally, the review addresses ongoing scientific debates, particularly concerning the taxonomic classification of European mouflon, and identifies crucial avenues for future research to further unravel the intricate evolutionary tapestry of Ovis species. To ensure taxonomic consistency and promote conservation, nomenclature should be updated across all public repositories. Following the widely accepted classification that recognizes its lineage from the Asian mouflon, the Corsican and Sardinian mouflon should be designated as Ovis gmelini musimon.