cultigen

A cultigen is a cultivated or domesticated organism that has changed significantly from its wild ancestors due to human intervention. These changes are so substantial that they warrant classification as a distinct species, subspecies, or variety.1

Agriculture is the active process of growing useful plants and animals within human-created ecosystems. This involves disrupting natural habitats, such as clearing land and tilling soil, to favor organisms that humans use for food, technology, medicine, and other purposes. Over time, through human selection, plants and animals develop characteristics that enhance their utility, becoming domesticated. For example, domesticated plants may yield larger seeds or fruits, while domesticated animals might be more docile or produce more meat or milk. Examples of cultigens include kidney beans, dogs, and corn.21