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In Sweet Breakthrough, Scientists Led By Makers of M&Ms Sequence the Chocolate Genome
Updated: In a monumental step for chocolate lovers — ah, let's be honest, the whole of humankind — scientists announced today they have completed a preliminary genome sequence for the cacao tree.
"Although it may not benefit the bottom line in the short term, in the long run, it will ensure mutually beneficial results for the company, cocoa farmers and tree crop production in key regions of the world," he said.
Genome sequencing takes plant breeding and cultivation to a new level. Armed with information about a plant's genetic code, scientists can more easily search for genes that produce desirable traits for boosting yields and disease resistance. And, of course, ensuring genetically engineered chocolatey awesomeness.
Fungal resistance is a key issue in cocoa production, for instance — fungal diseases have cost the cocoa industry $700 million a year for the past 15 years. Brazil was the world's second largest cocoa country, producing over 400,000 tons per year, until a fungus infected almost all of its crops. Now, 70 percent of the world's cocoa comes from Africa, and Ivory Coast is the world's biggest producer.
Researchers want to guard against further losses (if not chocolate hoarders) by identifying genes that confer disease resistance. It would also be nice to know which genes control traits like yield and flavor.....snip~
In Sweet Breakthrough, Scientists Led By Makers of M&Ms Sequence the Chocolate Genome | Popular Science
