New, more resistant varieties of coffee may come

By: Trademagazin Date: 2024. 02. 01. 11:25

The Italian research team has achieved a breakthrough in deciphering the genetic code of coffee, which could help breed new coffee varieties and strengthen plants against the challenges of climate change. Using state-of-the-art DNA sequencing technology, the study published in the journal Nature Communications created the most comprehensive genetic map of the Arabica coffee variety to date, paving the way for delicious and climate-resistant coffees.

The development of new coffee varieties is extremely important, as coffee plants are severely affected by rising temperatures and unpredictable weather changes. The details of the study cover the genes that play a key role in the production of coffee, which are responsible for coffee’s special sweet, mild taste.

Responding to the challenges facing the coffee industry, the research team hopes the new information will help coffee growers develop varieties that are more resilient to changing environmental conditions.

The Arabica coffee variety currently accounts for 60% of coffee consumption and is often considered the finest. However, the plant is vulnerable to changing temperature and rainfall distribution, which leads to a decrease in yield and the spread of diseases. The research showed that arabica has difficulty adapting to environmental changes due to its low genetic diversity.