As scientists release the draft genome sequencing of the avocado, this could lead to crop improvements in the future. University of Queensland's Centre for Horticultural Science's Professor Neena Mitter, along with colleagues Dr Alice Hayward and Stephen Fletcher collaborated on the international research led by Professor Luis Herrera-Estrella that recently published the first draft sequencing of the Hass variety genome.
Mitter said the avocado had around 25,000 protein-coding genes - roughly the same as humans: "There is a lot of genetic variation in avocado, and this new genetic information, coupled with advances in big data means there's huge potential for future crop improvement and breeding that we can now tap into.”
UQ researchers in the Hort Innovation National Tree Genomics Program will now complete the final assembly of the genome.
"Unlocking the avocado genome will help us better target management practices by understanding the genetic controls for biological processes that influence commercially important traits," she said.
Source: goodfruitandvegetables.com.au
