Researchers at Cornell University have successfully sequenced the Honeycrisp apple genome, which will help scientists and breeders work to create the ‘perfect’ apple. The process used, called genome sequencing, involves researchers essentially mapping the genetics of an organism. Unlike past sequencing studies, such as the Golden Delicious apple sequencing in 2010 that mapped out about 68 percent of the apple’s genes, the project at Cornell produced a nearly full genetic picture that encompasses 97 percent of the Honeycrisp’s genetic makeup.
Apart from the apple’s desirable traits, including cold-hardiness, taste and texture and resistance to some common diseases, it also presents challenges to growers. Honeycrisp apple trees tend to struggle to get enough nutrients and require hands-on inputs from farmers. The apples also suffer from some genetic-led problems, such as susceptibility to a fungal issue called bitter rot, as well as a syndrome called bitter pit, the result of calcium imbalance within apples.
Mapping genomes can get to the core of these problems, allowing crop breeders to adapt these undesirable traits genetically.
Source: modernfarmer.com