A recent study published in the journal Nature Genetics has shed new light on the origins of coffee Arabica, a highly popular coffee species worldwide. This research indicates that Arabica coffee emerged over 600,000 years ago in the forests of Ethiopia. Arabica beans are used in about 60% of the world’s coffee products, with major coffee chains like Starbucks and Tim Hortons exclusively using this species.
Despite its widespread popularity, Arabica is susceptible to various diseases and requires specific growing conditions that limit its cultivation to select areas globally. However, it is known for its sweet and soft flavors, as well as a more nuanced set of aromas compared to other coffee species. It also has a lower caffeine content and higher acidity, reducing bitterness in the brew.
The study reveals that Arabica is a natural hybrid of the Coffea canephora and Coffea eugenioides species, with crossbreeding occurring before the cultivation of coffee and the existence of modern humans. Researchers used genomic information from present-day plants to trace Arabica’s evolutionary history and its relationship to modern cultivated varieties. Understanding the genetic makeup of Arabica coffee is crucial for developing new cultivars better suited for climate change conditions. By analyzing the genetic composition of a rust-resistant Arabica variety, researchers identified specific genetic markers that could enhance the plant’s resilience to diseases.
However, this study also suggests that Arabica coffee cultivation may have originated in Yemen around the 1600s when an Indian monk named Baba Budan smuggled out seven seeds from Yemen paving way for Indian Arabica cultivars expansion globally. Understanding ancient origins and breeding history of Arabica coffee is vital for sustainable cultivation practices and developing improved coffee varieties in face environmental challenges.
Overall, this research provides valuable insights into one of the world’s most popular beverages while also highlighting areas where further exploration is needed for sustainable farming practices.
In conclusion, this recent study sheds light on one of humanity’s favorite beverages by revealing groundbreaking information about its origins. The results suggest that Arabica emerged over 600,000 years ago in Ethiopia but was later moved to Yemen by an Indian monk named Baba Budan during which it evolved into different varieties which are used today worldwide by major chains like Starbucks and Tim Hortons exclusively use this species. Understanding its evolutionary history will help us develop new cultivars better suited for climate change conditions while also ensuring sustainable farming practices for future generations.
