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Study reveals potatoes evolved from tomatoes

New research shows modern potatoes have a genetic link to tomatoes.

July 31, 2025 at 03:02 PM

Potatoes Evolved From Tomatoes, Study Reveals

A significant discovery links the modern potato to its tomato relatives.

Potatoes are direct descendants of tomatoes according to new study

Recent research from genome biologist Sanwen Huang indicates that modern potatoes evolved from tomatoes. This finding, published in Cell, suggests the potatoes we know today appeared around 9 million years ago. Through the study, Huang and his team determined that tomatoes and the potato-like etuberosum are related, challenging previous beliefs about potato origins. The analysis of 450 genomes highlighted that tomatoes are closely connected to the tuber-producing petota group of wild potatoes. Intriguingly, the genes responsible for the potato's tuber development emerged through genetic contributions from both tomatoes and etuberosum, despite neither parent species having tubers.

Key Takeaways

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Potatoes and tomatoes share a genetic lineage dating back 9 million years.

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The modern potato evolved from a hybridization of tomatoes and etuberosum.

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The study contradicts prior beliefs about potato ancestry.

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Genetic analyses reveal close ties between potatoes and wild relatives.

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Future potato breeding may benefit from understanding this genetic relationship.

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The discovery could influence agricultural strategies for improving crops.

"Yes, we revealed that the tomato is the mother of the potato."

Huang confirms the unexpected ancestry of potatoes in a straightforward statement.

"Next time you eat potatoes, thank a tomato—the ancient, perhaps, mother of the potato."

Huang emphasizes the surprising connection between these two popular foods.

This research not only reshapes the understanding of potato evolution but also opens doors for agricultural advancements. As scientists work to improve potato breeds, the genetic relationship revealed here could help mitigate harmful mutations while enhancing crop yield. The innovative approach of combining genetic data from various plant species highlights the complexities of plant evolution and the potential for future discoveries in agriculture.