Scientists have traced the potato’s origin back nine million years, revealing it arose from a chance hybridization between a tomato ancestor and a wild plant. This evolutionary leap enabled tuber formation, a crucial adaptation for survival in harsh climates. Understanding potato genetics offers insights for developing climate-resilient crops to ensure future food security.Strange but true: Today’s potato came from a tomato-like plant 9 million years ago; scientists say
Scientists have traced the potato’s origin back nine million years, revealing it arose from a chance hybridization between a tomato ancestor and a wild plant. This evolutionary leap enabled tuber formation, a crucial adaptation for survival in harsh climates. Understanding potato genetics offers insights for developing climate-resilient crops to ensure future food security.