In Madrid, a team of scientists has uncovered the highest-quality reference genome of Arabica coffee, the most popular variety of coffee in the world. This genome provides insights into its lineage that spans thousands of years and multiple continents. The study, published in Nature Genetics, reveals that Arabica coffee was developed over 600,000 years ago in the forests of Ethiopia through natural crossing between two other coffee species.
Arabica coffee has faced challenges over time due to low genetic diversity and susceptibility to pests and diseases. It is essential for major coffee chains like Starbucks and Tim Hortons, but its cultivation is limited to specific regions with favorable conditions. However, understanding its origins and breeding history is crucial for developing new cultivars that are better adapted to climate change.
The researchers used cutting-edge DNA sequencing technology to sequence 39 varieties of Arabica, including an 18th-century specimen named by Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus. They created the most advanced Arabica reference genome to date, which is now available in a public database. This knowledge can help improve crop yields and promote sustainable farming practices.
Coffee has played an essential role in many cultures throughout history, helping people start their day for centuries. Scientists have determined that Arabica coffee was formed as a natural hybridization between Coffea canephora and Coffea eugenioides, indicating that this event predates modern humans and coffee cultivation. The geographic divide of wild and cultivated Arabica varieties suggests that coffee cultivation may have originated in Yemen around the 15th century.
This research sheds light on the long history and evolutionary path of Arabica coffee, a beloved beverage enjoyed around the world. Understanding its origins can help us appreciate its significance in our daily lives and guide us towards developing more sustainable farming practices for future generations to enjoy it.
In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the origins and breeding history of Arabica coffee, which makes up 60% of the world’s coffee products. The results highlight the importance of preserving genetic diversity in crops like Arabica while promoting sustainable farming practices that benefit both humans and the environment alike.