Final answer:
Agriculture in Southern Europe led to the domestication of crops like wheat, barley, olives, and grapes, as well as animals such as sheep, goats, cattle, and pigs. These species provided food and labor, shaping the development of agrarian societies and the intercontinental exchange of species.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Southern Europe, the rise of agriculture led to the domestication of various plant species and animals. Early agriculture in the region included the domestication of edible wild grasses, which evolved into crops we recognize today such as wheat and barley. Other plant species that were domesticated include olives, grapes, and lentils. When it comes to animals, Southern Europe saw the domestication of sheep, goats, cattle, and pigs, which were chosen for characteristics beneficial to humans, such as docility and rapid reproduction.
These domesticated plants and animals not only supported the development of stable communities but also played a role in the exchange of species between continents. For instance, olives and grapes became integral parts of the Mediterranean diet and agricultural economy. The domesticated animals such as sheep and cattle provided food, clothing, and labor, representing essential resources for the agrarian societies.
Moreover, as farming spread from the Middle East to Southern Europe, grains like einkorn and emmer became widespread in agriculture, alongside pulses like peas and beans. The practice of farming eventually moved through the region, influencing cultures and livelihoods, and shaping the outline of today's agricultural landscapes in Southern Europe.