Decode 99% of the genome sequence of cocoa trees

Based on this information, scientists can breed to create new varieties of cocoa that have many outstanding features such as resistance to pests, drought and high quality and yield. more current varieties of cocoa.

" Deciphering the genetic sequence of cocoa trees will help to improve the limitations of the traditional cocoa being grown today, meeting the growing demand for fruits of this plant, " said Dr. Howard-Yana. Shapiro, a confectionary scientist in global crop science, said.

It is known that this study began to be implemented since 2008 and is expected to last for 5 years. However, with the application of the world's leading modern technology, scientists have completed almost the entire genome sequence of cocoa trees after only 2 years of research, 3 years earlier than originally expected.

' The participation of leading US scientists and the application of IBM's bio-computing technology has helped to reduce the 3-year process of sequencing the genes of cocoa. ' , Ajay Royyuru, director of the IBM Biomedical Center, said. ' Our results will help scientists find a way to maximize the advantages of cocoa .'

The results of genetic sequencing of cocoa trees will be officially announced when the genetic data of cocoa trees are completed: www.cacaogenomedb.org.