The Tapir Chronicles: A Tale of Domestication and Evolution in Ancient South America

Title: The Tale of Tapirus Tapirus: A History Reimagined In this reimagined alternative history, the indigenous peoples of South America had a tremendous breakthrough around 4,000 BCE when they succeeded in taming and domesticating prominent species of tapirs – the Baird's tapirs and South American tapirs. By conducting selective breeding, the natives ensured the strongest and most desirable traits passed down through generations, paving the way for controlled evolution which eventually gave birth to a novel hybrid species, the Domestic Tapir (Tapirus tapirus). This was during the time of the Early Formative Period, a time of significant agricultural developments and the growing establishment of sedentary communities. The natives had already excelled in growing corn, beans, and squash, but the incorporation of the tapir into their way of life marked a major milestone in their development. Over hundreds of years of careful domestication and breeding, these hybrids became more docile, adaptable, and profitable. Particular traits such as their size, durability, and shorter gestation period made them desirable for manual labor and as a transport means across the dense jungles and rugged terrain. However, tapirs were not merely beasts of burden. The Tapirus tapirus was a source of sustenance. As herbivores, they primarily consumed leaves, shoots, and fruit, converting this vegetation into nutrient-rich meat that was heavily relied upon by the native population. Their fat was rendered for use in cooking and also for the production of soap, and their hides were utilized for various needs including clothing and shelter. Surprisingly, tapirs were also a source of dairy. The indigenous people nurtured the relationship between humans and tapirs to a point where the normally elusive animals allowed themselves to be milked. It was a difficult process given the nature of these creatures, but the reward was a nutritious supplement to the peoples' diet. This practice distinguished them from other civilizations, and the tapir became a symbol of their resilience. Perhaps most peculiarly, tapirs were also kept as companion animals. Normally known to be solitary in the wild, domestic tapirs became comfortable in human company, their docile nature made them safe and sometimes affectionate companions. The bond between human and tapir was celebrated, with depictions of this unique relationship common in indigenous artwork. This alternative take on history revolutionizes the role of the tapir, positioning it an integral entity within South American societies, not just as a beast of burden or a source of food, but as a true companion, altering the course of civilization in the process.