A recent genetic study has revealed that Arabica coffee, one of the most popular coffee species, is likely around 600,000 years old, having emerged through natural crossbreeding. The researchers behind the study, published in the journal Nature Genetics, analyzed genes from coffee plants around the world to build a family tree of Arabica coffee.
The study sheds light on the origins of Arabica coffee, which was first believed to have been roasted and brewed in Yemen in the 1400s before spreading globally. Today, Arabica coffee accounts for 60-70% of the global coffee market and is known for its smooth and sweet flavor. The rest of the market is taken up by Robusta coffee, a stronger and more bitter variety.
Researchers found that Arabica coffee plants have faced population bottlenecks over thousands of years, making them more vulnerable to diseases like coffee leaf rust. By studying the genetic makeup of different Arabica plants, including a sample from the 1700s, scientists hope to develop strategies to protect the crop from pests and climate change.
The study highlights the importance of understanding Arabica coffee’s past and present to ensure the health of coffee plants and the availability of coffee for future generations. By exploring the genetic history of Arabica coffee, researchers aim to develop solutions that will safeguard the crop and keep coffee cups full for those early mornings.
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