Assessment Questions 8.16

1. According to genetic analysis, where did the diverse varieties of maize originate from?

All current maize varieties originated from a single domestication event of teosinte in the New World.

2. What characteristics were selected for in the domestication of rice?

Early domesticated rice varieties were selected for stoutness, straightness, and reduced shattering of grains from stalks during harvesting.

3. How long ago was it estimated that teosinte was first genetically modified by ancient Americans?

It was estimated to be as much as 9,000 years ago.