A ternary plot of citrus geneology
a day ago
- #genetics
- #hybridization
- #citrus
- Most citrus fruits are hybrids of three original species: mandarin, pomelo, and citron.
- The genealogy of citrus is complex, better represented as a web or ternary plot rather than a tree.
- Original citrus species diverged over five million years ago due to climatic events.
- Human cultivation and historical trade routes led to further hybridization and the development of sweeter, mandarin-rich varieties.
- Additional original varieties like samuyao and hybrids like key lime complicate the ternary representation.
- The ternary plot visually reveals patterns in citrus genetics, showing how human taste and historical events shaped modern varieties.
- Citrus genetics reflect human influence, with clustering indicating preferences for certain flavors.