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hese vegetable varieties are selected from "leaves" to "stems" and then to "flowers"! Do you know how they mutate
In the plant kingdom, Brassica oleracea, often called wild cabbage, is a plant that has evolved over thousands of years, from its original wild state to many varieties that include not only leaves and stems, but also Including different forms of flowers. How did these evolutions happen?
The plant's roots can be traced back to the eastern Mediterranean, and research shows that Brassica oleracea most likely originated from related plants in the wild. After a long period of artificial selection, it has shown amazing diversity. The fundamental reason is that ancient people preferred raw or cooked parts, thereby selecting different characteristics for reproduction.
Traditionally, the plant was grown primarily for its leaves, but as cultivars developed, this changed to a more diverse plant with primarily stems and flowers, a process that reflects the profound impact humans have had on crops.
According to historical sources, the first large leaf selections appeared in the fifth century BC, and the growth of this period led to the formation of what is now known as "kale". As selection continued, the stem became increasingly important, eventually leading to the kohlrabi, also known as the "bulb." Furthermore, the selection of mature flowers led to the development of the cauliflower and broccoli we know today. These changes are not limited to the morphology of plants, but extend deeper into our food culture.
Plant evolution: imagination from leaves to stems
According to current research, Brassica oleracea has undergone multiple genetic changes, which also makes the emergence of different varieties possible. The scientists found that the expression of different genes changed significantly in different plant morphologies. For example, changes in gene expression can affect the development of flower structures, which may explain why we now see a wide variety of cauliflowers and broccoli.
"This series of changes is not only a selection at the genetic level, but also the result of the evolution of human culture and eating habits."
One of the reasons some vegetables taste particularly bitter is because of our genetic interaction with these plants. When certain components of plants enter our taste receptors, this triggers different taste sensations. According to the study of the TAS2R38 gene, this has far-reaching implications for brassica plants such as cabbage.
The interaction between humans and nature
Human selection has shaped the evolution of Brassica oleracea into the diverse vegetable it is today. From the initial leaf selection, to the strengthening of the stems, and finally to the cultivation of flowers, this process is not only the result of natural evolution, but also the crystallization of human wisdom.
"We will continue to see the impact of human choices on these plants in the future, and how should we understand the diversity of food that comes with these choices?"
Overall, the story of the evolution of Brassica oleracea is a microcosm of history that shows us the endless variety of colors and flavors, and reminds us to be more careful and responsible when choosing ingredients in the future. How will human selection processes continue to influence the future of vegetables?
