The strange-but-true origin story of the humble potato
Summary
Scientists discovered that potatoes, which we commonly eat today, evolved from a mix between ancestors of tomatoes and a plant group called Etuberosum about nine million years ago. This discovery helps explain the genetic mystery about potatoes, suggesting that an ancient plant crossover led to their unique traits, like growing underground tubers.Key Facts
- Potatoes evolved from a hybridization of two plants around nine million years ago.
- They are closely related to tomatoes and the Etuberosum plant group.
- The confusion about potatoes' genetic history comes from mixed genetic signals shared with tomatoes and Etuberosum.
- Recent research identified that an ancient mix between these plant ancestors led to the potato lineage.
- The potato originated in the Americas and now includes 107 wild species.
- Potatoes grow underground tubers, which help them survive through non-growing seasons.
- The genetic study involved sequencing the genomes of various plants, including tomatoes, and related potato species.
- Researchers aim to use this genetic understanding to breed potatoes that can resist disease and adapt to climate change.
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