Genetics, evolution and importance of coffee in Honduras and worldwide

Abstract

Introduction: Coffee is one of the most important crops worldwide, ranking second after crude oil. In 1850, coffee began to expand with the promotion of European settlers. Coffee represents an important economic activity in Central America, representing around 10% of world production. Methods: A bibliographic review was carried out to identify information related to coffee cultivation. Discussion: Ethiopia is believed to be the original birthplace of coffee. There are two main species of coffee cultivation: Arabica and Robusta. The molecular phylogeny of coffee species is based on 28,800 joined nucleotide polymorphisms defining relationships between species. On the other hand, coffee production has been a fundamental pillar for the Honduran economy, positioning itself as the largest coffee exporter in Central America and the fifth in the world. Conclusion: Due to the importance of coffee in the world and in Honduras, it is important to highlight the role of biotechnology in the development of varieties resistant to different pests and diseases, guaranteeing a sustainable crop production.