Tomatoes turned out to be the ancestor of potatoes!

NEWS CENTER

Created: August 01, 2025 11:21

The study examined the genomes of 450 different potatoes, including cultivated potatoes and 56 wild varieties. Scientists also identified two key genes that shape potatoes today:

• SP6A : Gene that triggers tuber formation. Originates from tomato.
• IT1 : Gene that provides the development of underground growing stem structure. Originated from Etuberosum .

The combination of these two genes enabled the potato to develop by forming tubers underground.

EVOLUTIONARY BREAKTHROUGH IN THE ANDES

According to the research, this hybrid plant, which can be considered the ancestor of the potato, adapted to changing climatic conditions with the rise of the Andes Mountains in South America. Propagated from tubers rather than seeds, this plant species resisted high altitudes and harsh environmental conditions. Over time, it evolved into many different potato varieties.

"This hybridization event is not just the merging of two species; it is the direct emergence of a new species and a new organ (tuber)," said plant geneticist Robin Buell, who led the research.

IT MAY OPEN NEW HORIZONS IN AGRICULTURE

According to scientists, this discovery not only solves an evolutionary mystery but also paves the way for future agricultural innovations. For example, tomatoes could be genetically engineered to produce tubers, or potatoes could be made more efficient by seed.

This tuberous plant, which evolved in the Andes Mountains , was cultivated for thousands of years by indigenous peoples in South America. Potatoes reached Europe in the 1500s and are now one of the most consumed agricultural products worldwide.