The genome sequence of Golden Delicious apple, the fourth most economically important fruit crop in the world, is now available. The sequence shows that large lengths of apple chromosomes are repeated and could be the reason the fruit is different from others in the family. Apple genome has 17 chromosomes while others like peach and strawberry have half the number.

The genetic map would help identify genes that provide desirable characteristics to the fruit and help breeders improve taste and protect the plant from diseases. The research also revealed that that the ancestor of the modern domesticated apple is Malus sieversii, native to the mountains of southern Kazakhstan.

Source: Down To Earth
Date: September, 2008