Scientists have discovered that the potato evolved from a tomato ancestor around 9 million years ago. A study published in Cell reveals that a gene from an ancient tomato, combined with genes from the Chilean species Etuberosum, enabled the development of the starch-rich tubers that characterize modern potatoes. Researchers analyzed hundreds of potato genomes to reach this conclusion, marking a significant breakthrough in understanding potato origins. The finding also highlights how hybridization can drive the evolution of new traits.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.