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Foraging For Wild Harvested Arabica Coffee Beans If you're enjoying the morning cup of coffee, it's probably brewed using beans from the Coffea arabica variety. This variety makes up about 60% to 70% of the world's coffee market. Researchers at UB have produced an UB reference genome that is of the highest quality to date for this species of plant, revealing secrets about its lineage across millennia. This research provides insight into ways we can cultivate the plant to make it more resistant to the effects of climate change and diseases. Health Benefits It is a bit surprising that many are so ignorant about the origins of coffee and its current conditions. Despite its popularity the coffee plant is a relatively new crop and only in the last century did major multinational corporations emerge and dominate the market. The species, Coffea arabica, has a diverse chemical composition that can have a variety of health benefits. While research on this subject is still in its early stages the plant's antioxidants are believed to reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases. The process of hunting for wild coffee provides the chance to gain access to these health benefits. In the wild, Coffea arabica grows as small tree or shrub that produces fruit that has two seeds per. The fruits are referred to as drupes, and they have a fleshy, edible exterior that is stuffed with coffee beans. These drupes are green when unripe and turn red or purple when ready to harvest. The trees require regular pruning to help them grow and establish and are pollinated by wild birds or other insects to produce the best harvest. The plants thrive in tropical climates, where temperatures are maintained between 15-24oC (59-75oF). Photosynthesis is slowed by temperatures that are too high or low. The trees also require a sufficient amount of rainfall 1500-2500 mm per year, distributed evenly throughout the year. A lack of rain could cause the plant to rust or even die. In drought conditions it is important to provide water. The majority of commercially grown coffee is grown from cultivars bred for particular traits. These cultivars do not have the genetic diversity that the natural populations of the species have. This makes the crop vulnerable to a broad range of pathogens and pests, and climate change is threatening the plant's supply as well. The protection of the genetic diversity of wild species makes it easier to overcome these threats and preserve the cultural, economic, and health benefits of this world favorite. Caffeine found in coffee can boost metabolism in the body and increase focus, mental alertness and performance. It can help prevent dehydration, promote weight loss, and decrease the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and certain types cancer. The social aspect of coffee drinking can have a positive impact on health. Economic Benefits For millions of people across the world coffee is more than just an alcoholic beverage, it's a source of income and economic well-being. Climate change could cause coffee prices to increase substantially, threatening the livelihoods of those who depend on the beverage. Coffee cultivation is complicated, but researchers are looking for ways to sustain this important crop while also protecting the environment and the farmers who grow it. Coffea arabica is a tropical evergreen plant or tree produces a drupe, or fruit with two seeds, which is the coffee bean we drink. The sweet, fleshy, and fragrant fruits of Coffea Arabicica are similar to those of other drupes such as plums, cherries, and peaches. They share male (staminate) and female (pistillate) characteristics and are self-pollinating, although cross-pollinating is usually required to make high-quality coffee beans. Cultivation of Coffea arabica requires specialized conditions. The plants require a rich, well draining soil, as well as a moderate climate that ranges from cold to warm. They are sensitive to temperature changes and require protection against frost. They are susceptible to pests and disease like the fungus that causes leaf rust and coffee berry beetle. These can cause significant loss of production. The study of the genetics of coffee plants has led to the development of new varieties and hybrids that are more resistant to climate change and other threats. In addition, scientists are trying to find coffee cultivars with distinctive aromas and flavors to the drinkers. The coffee industry is also experimenting with sustainable farming methods that can minimize environmental impacts like water management and improved fertilization. These changes will benefit both coffee farms as well as communities that depend on them. arabica coffee can also enhance the quality and quantity of the beans. By preserving the natural habitats where these plants thrive naturally, a lot of the issues that confront coffee cultivation can be addressed. This means that the forests of southwest Ethiopia are a growing place to safeguard the genetic diversity of Coffea arabica, which is a vital ingredient in our morning cup of joe. Environmental Benefits Coffee is cultivated at high altitudes and requires an environment with moderate temperature fluctuations. It also requires lots of rain, which is accomplished by spreading the rainfall throughout the year. The plants are often cut to improve productivity and reduce height, as well as to keep them healthy. Coffea arabica can last between nine and ten months from the time of flowering until harvesting and the entire process takes place within a single growing season. Harvesting is usually done by hand, to ensure only ripe cherries are picked. This helps prevent overproduction that could lead to diseases or poor quality. Wild coffee is more genetically diverse than commercially grown varieties. These are cultivars that were created through selective breeding to achieve specific characteristics. As such, it is more able to adapt to changes in threats and conditions. This genetic diversity could also aid in preserving the cultural and economic advantages that Arabica coffee can bring in the future. Deforestation, pollution, and other environmental issues are threatening wild coffee plants in southwest Ethiopia. To ensure the longevity of this species and the long-term livelihoods of communities dependent on it, conservation strategies should be put into place. One such strategy is called Participatory Forest Management (PFM) where the forest is managed by local residents who live in and around the forest. These communities have been granted long-standing forest rights and are accountable for managing the land. The PFM approach allows these communities to manage their coffee plantations, as well as other forest resources. This allows the preservation of the natural ecosystem and biodiversity that supports the development and growth of the coffee plant. As the demand for premium coffee continues to rise, making sure these practices are integrated into every aspect of production is crucial. This will not only improve the quality of coffee beans, but it will protect the environment and help to improve the lives of those who depend on it for their livelihoods. By prioritizing conservation and sustainability coffee farmers will be able to continue producing outstanding coffee while contributing to an environmentally sustainable global economy. Cultural Benefits The coffee we consume in the morning is made from the fruit of certain plants. The fruit is shaped like the cherry, and also has the coffee bean inside. The beans are protected by a layer of pulp, and the flavor profiles vary depending on how the brew is prepared. Some methods are known to produce nutty notes and others give fruity and floral notes. Roasting techniques can alter the overall flavor profile which can alter the intensity of the beer's aroma and flavor characteristics. The first evidence of coffee cultivation dates back to the 7th century with the first arabica seeds crossing the Red Sea into Yemen and the lower Arabian Peninsula. This journey marked a new global culture centered around this highly valued crop. Cultivated Arabica is genetically limited than its wild relatives, and this lack of diversity exposes it to environmental stressors like epidemics of disease or changes in the climate. The genetic diversity found in the coffee species' natural habitat is crucial to our long-term ability to grow an environmentally sustainable and healthy crop. The cultivation and harvesting of arabica beans from the wild regardless of whether it is in Ethiopia or anywhere else, is not just a good thing for the environment but is also a cultural, social, and economic practice that has many benefits for local communities. In fact, many of the most sought after coffees available are sourced from wild harvests because they provide distinct flavor profiles that are hard to duplicate in cultivated plants. These foraged plants also help maintain the Coffea Arabicica, which is vital, given that the majority of coffee that is commercially produced is derived from crop cultivars that are derived from 10 percent of the genetic diversity found in wild arabica. This diversity will help us combat future threats and the impacts of climate change that will affect the coffee industry worldwide. We've made great strides in the coffee industry, but there's a lot more to be done. The impact of the coffee industry on tropical ecosystems will be reduced by the promotion and implementation of sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural practices. This includes the implementation of soil management, intercropping, and Agroforestry techniques to lessen the impact of coffee. It also involves encouraging the cultivation of wild arabica and other species, and also promoting sustainable farming practices like shade coffee to reduce the danger of diseases and pests.