Potato Origin Solved: Ancient Hybridization Created Tuber | JQJO

Scientists have solved the genetic mystery of the potato's origin. Research published in Cell reveals that potatoes arose from an ancient interbreeding event between tomato and Etuberosum ancestors approximately 9 million years ago in the Andes. This hybridization resulted in a plant capable of producing tubers, perfectly suited to the high-altitude environment. The discovery could lead to genetically improved potatoes, resistant to diseases and climate change, potentially utilizing tomato or Etuberosum genes.