The sugarcane genome was recently decoded, revealing its complexity compared to rice. The study involved studying the diversity of crops and their evolution, shedding light on how plants have adapted over the years due to human selection and environmental factors. The research team utilized sorghum as a model plant to unravel the sugarcane genome, showcasing the importance of understanding plant genetics for future crop adaptations. This study, along with other genomic research on tropical plants like cocoa, coffee, and citrus, highlights the surprising and unique genetic combinations that have occurred over thousands of years. The implications of this research extend beyond agriculture, touching on societal and environmental challenges such as climate change and food security. This work is crucial in developing new crop varieties and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices for the future.
https://phys.org/news/2024-07-genome-diversity-major-crops-story.html