A recent study has shed new light on the humble potato’s origins, revealing that it evolved from a rare hybridization between wild tomatoes and a type of plant called Etuberosum over 9 million years ago. This groundbreaking discovery changes our understanding of evolution and explains how potatoes developed their distinctive tubers.
The study found that the common potato (Solanum tuberosum) is actually a hybrid of two distinct species: Solanum lycopersicum, the wild tomato, and Solanum etuberosum, a potato-like plant. This unusual combination led to the creation of the modern potato, which has become an staple crop around the world.
The origin of the tuberous potato is a fascinating story of adaptation and natural selection. The researchers believe that the hybridization occurred when the wild tomato and Etuberosum plants crossed paths in the Andes mountains. Over time, the resulting offspring developed larger, more complex tubers as they adapted to their new environment.
This discovery not only sheds light on the potato’s mysterious past but also highlights the intricate and complex processes of evolution. As scientists continue to study the origins of this iconic crop, we gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world and its many secrets waiting to be uncovered.
Source: https://www.firstpost.com/vantage/potatoes-evolved-from-tomatoes-scientists-uncover-9-million-year-old-secret-vantage-vd1338415