Chinese researchers unveil genetic blueprint of tea plants

A groundbreaking study by Chinese scientists has decoded the genetic basis of key agronomic and metabolic traits in tea plants, offering transformative insights for the future breeding of high-quality tea varieties. This is reported by Xinhua News Agency, a partner of TV BRICS.

The study marks a significant step forward in understanding tea plants' genetic composition, the source claim. Researchers analysed 1,325 tea tree germplasm resources from 14 major tea-producing countries worldwide.

Using genome-wide association studies, they identified thousands of key genetic associations related to leaf shape and metabolite traits, revealing crucial candidate genes responsible for flavour, aroma, and other essential agronomic features.

Researchers explained that through deep whole-genome resequencing, the team constructed a detailed genome-wide variation map.

This breakthrough has enabled the identification of beneficial genes and harmful mutations, which will play a vital role in breeding new tea varieties with enhanced flavour profiles, increased resistance to environmental stress, and greater adaptability to diverse climates.

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