Scientists from Australia and China have made a groundbreaking discovery that could significantly boost peanut production worldwide. By mapping the first comprehensive pangenome of peanuts, the team identified key genetic changes that influence seed size and weight—two critical factors for maximizing crop yields.
The international team analyzed the genetic diversity of 269 peanut varieties, including wild species, local cultivars, and improved strains. Their research revealed significant genetic differences and highlighted specific variations directly linked to larger seed development.
In a world-first finding, the scientists discovered that deleting the Aharf2-2 gene, which normally restricts seed growth, results in significantly larger peanut seeds. Notably, they found that a gene regulating cell division and seed size was missing in all 61 wild peanut species studied, shedding light on the evolution of cultivated peanuts.
“This study offers the most comprehensive genetic resource for peanuts to date and will be invaluable for future breeding efforts,” said Professor Rajeev Varshney, director of Murdoch University’s Center for Crop and Food Innovation. “By understanding the genetic factors that control seed size, we can improve peanut yields to meet global food demands.”
Professor Peter Davies, pro-vice chancellor of Murdoch University and director of the university’s Food Futures Institute, added that these insights could benefit other important crops like cotton and rapeseed. “Unlocking the secrets of seed size regulation doesn’t just help peanuts—it has the potential to enhance the productivity of various essential crops,” he said.
The pangenome, encompassing both wild and cultivated peanut species, provides a crucial foundation for future genetic enhancements in legumes and other significant crops. The study was a collaborative effort among scientists from Murdoch University and China’s Henan Agricultural University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences. Their findings were published in the journal Nature Genetics.
