Experts uncover the secret of superspud's genetic code

AN INTERNATIONAL team of scientists – led by experts at Scotland's main crop research centre – has made a major breakthrough by mapping out the genetic makeup of the humble potato for the first time.

The potato is the first major crop plant in Britain to have its genetic code fully sequenced.

Experts claim the discovery could have a major impact in speeding up the traditionally time-consuming process of developing new potato varieties to help feed the world.

It could also pave the way for major improvements to food security by improving the yield, quality and nutritional value of future crops and their resistance to pests and diseases.

The cracking of the potato genetic code has been achieved by researchers at the James Hutton Institute, the world-renowned research centre for land use, crops and the environment based at Aberdeen, Dundee University and Imperial College London. Professor Iain Gordon, chief executive of the institute, said: "With global population forecast to reach nine billion by 2050, there will be many more mouths to feed and the genome sequence will allow scientists and breeders to increase the efficiency of potato production to help meet this challenge."

Dr Glenn Bryan, the scientist who led the research, said decoding the genome sequence would help scientists develop a better understanding of how potatoes grow and develop, leading to improved crops worldwide.

"It will lead to accelerated breeding of new varieties using of the genome data to identify genes and genetic markers for important traits," he said.

"Understanding the genetic blueprint for the potato gives us the option of introducing – through breeding programmes – desirable characteristics, such as enhanced pest and disease resistance and improved tuber quality characteristics."

Dr Gerard Bishop, of Imperial College London, said: "The wider crop research community has been eagerly anticipating this news. The potato genome will also help our understanding of closely related crops such as tomato, which will be of enormous benefit."

The research was funded by the Scottish Government, the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs and the Potato Council.

• Anti-poverty group ONE say G8 nations have so far provided just 22 per cent of a 13.7 billion agricultural aid package for Africa agreed in 2009. The UK has paid 30 per cent of its 1.1 billion commitment.

Vital to world's food supply

WILD potatoes were first grown for domestic consumption in present day Peru 10,000 years ago.

They were introduced to Europe by Spain in the 16th Century. It is the world's third most important food crop after wheat and rice with a world-wide production of 309 million tonnes.

By 2020 it is estimated more than two billion people worldwide will depend on potato for food, feed, or income.