Scientists Discover Four New Genetic Lineages of Cacao in Peru

Jul 7, 2026 - 15:00

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Scientists Discover Four New Genetic Lineages of Cacao in Peru

Recent findings document the domestication of cacao tree (Theobroma cacao) in the Ecuadorian Amazon region, its region of origin, by at least 5,300 years ago. Lanaud et al. demonstrate the large landscape of domestication of cacao, out of its area of origin, along the Pacific coast of South America, occurring concurrently during this same early time period and in subsequent time periods. Image credit: Fernando Graniel.

In an analysis of 390 traditionally cultivated cacao trees representing traditional Amazonian varieties, researchers identified four previously unknown genetic lineages, with two showing ancestry linked to exceptional flavor potential and offering new opportunities for growers and chocolate makers.

The post Scientists Discover Four New Genetic Lineages of Cacao in Peru appeared first on Sci.News: Breaking Science News.

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