Dmitry Belyaev

Dmitry Belyaev was a Russian scientist best known for his pioneering research on animal domestication. In the 1950s, he studied wild foxes and selectively bred the friendliest ones over generations. This process gradually produced tame foxes displaying traits similar to domesticated animals, such as softer fur and playful behavior. Belyaev's work demonstrated how selecting for behavior can lead to physical and genetic changes, providing valuable insight into the process of domestication and evolution. His research has influenced understanding of animal behavior, genetics, and the mechanisms behind domestication.