In 2012, scientists successfully sequenced the entire tomato genome.

The sequencing of the tomato genome (Solanum lycopersicum) was a massive international effort led by the Tomato Genome Consortium, involving over 300 scientists from 14 different countries. The results were published in the journal Nature in May 2012. The team focused on the 'Heinz 1706' variety, which serves as the reference genome for modern research.The study revealed that tomatoes possess approximately 35,000 genes arranged across 12 chromosomes. This genetic map is roughly 900 million base pairs long. By comparing the domestic tomato to its wild relative, Solanum pimpinellifolium, researchers found that the two species differ by only 0.6 percent of their nucleotide sequences. This comparison helps scientists understand how domestication altered the plant over thousands of years.One of the most significant findings involved the genes responsible for ripening and flavor. Modern industrial farming often prioritizes shelf life over taste, leading to the bland tomatoes found in many supermarkets. With this genetic blueprint, breeders can now reintroduce 'lost' flavor genes from wild varieties into commercial crops without sacrificing durability.Furthermore, identifying genes linked to pest and drought resistance allows for the development of hardier plants. This reduces the agricultural reliance on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, making tomato farming more sustainable. The project has since paved the way for similar genomic studies in other members of the Solanaceae family, such as potatoes, peppers, and eggplants.