Potato DNA is unique from human and most animal DNA, becuase they’re of tetraploid origin, meaning they have four copies of each chromosome in their DNA – two from each plant parent, as opposed to one. Because of the vast number of tetraploid varieties, potato varieties become closely related to one another and more genetically similar. Decreased genetic diversity leads to varieties being more vulnerable to different diseases, and less adapted to climate change.

One step scientists are taking to increase genetic diversity is working with potato relatives that are tetraploid or diploid. Wild diploid potatoes have two copies of each chromosome in their DNA, making their genetics easy to work with. Diploid potatoes are smaller, but hold true breeding potential because of their unexplored genetic traits.

AAFC research scientist Bourlaye Fofana discusses the work he and his team are doing with breeding diploid potatoes – from the desirable traits of the 50 most promising diploid clones, especially as it relates to drought resistance, to why taste-testers do indeed play an important role in in the scientific process.

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