Scientists from Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia published the DNA blueprint of the common durian, Durio zibethinus-laying bare the genes responsible for its unique traits.
Such data is vital to better understanding of durian biodiversity.
Knowing more about the plant’s DNA may help protect it.
There are 30 known species in the Durio family, with D. zibethinus the most widely consumed.
The thorn-covered fruit, yellow-green in colour, can grow to the size of a rugby ball.
More than 250,000 hectares of land, an area about the size of Luxembourg, was devoted to durian cultivation in 2008, according to the study authors.
In 2016, durian imports to China accounted for about $600 million (511 million euros) compared to about $200 million for oranges, another key commodity.
There are about 200 specially-bred durian cultivars, with a range of textures, flavours and aromas to please a variety of palates-with pungent and bitter fruit prized in Malaysia and Singapore, and sweeter ones in Thailand.
Yet despite the durian’s importance as a tropical fruit crop, genetic research has been almost nonexistent
Genomic data could also be useful for "rapid quality control", they said, verifying the authenticity of fruit sold as desirable cultivars which may fetch high prices among aficionados.
Further studies will help to elucidate the ecological roles of these important and fascinating tropical plants.
