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Study Links Potato Blight Origin to Andes Mountains

1/26/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A groundbreaking genetic study reveals that the Andes Mountains are the birthplace of the potato blight pathogen, Phytophthora infestans. This revelation not only settles long-standing debates but also underscores the urgent need for new potato resistance sources as climate change endangers Andean varieties. The blight's historical impact echoes the devastation of the Irish Great Famine from 1845 to 1852.

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Story summary

A groundbreaking genetic study reveals that the Andes Mountains are the birthplace of the potato blight pathogen, Phytophthora infestans. This revelation not only settles long-standing debates but also underscores the urgent need for new potato resistance sources as climate change endangers Andean varieties. The blight's historical impact echoes the devastation of the Irish Great Famine from 1845 to 1852.