Researchers affiliated with the University of Florida have successfully generated a chromosome-scale genome assembly for the primocane-fruiting, thornless tetraploid blackberry cultivar designated as BL1. Their findings are anticipated to serve as a significant asset for expediting genetic investigations into blackberries and fostering the creation of novel, improved varieties endowed with superior horticultural and nutritional attributes.
Blackberries. Image credit: Lin Animalart.
Blackberries are classified within the genus Rubus, specifically the subgenus Rubus (previously identified as subgenus Eubatus), and belong to the Rosaceae family.
These fruits are distinguished by their rich, dark purple to nearly black hue, their composite fruit structure, and a palate profile that balances juiciness with a medley of tart and sweet notes.
The nutritional profile of blackberry fruits is remarkable, offering abundant anthocyanins, potent antioxidants, and substantial dietary fiber content, thereby conferring considerable health advantages to consumers.
Over the course of the last two decades, a pronounced escalation in consumer demand has catalyzed a significant expansion of the marketplace for both fresh and processed blackberries, not only within the United States but also on a global scale.
As the fourth most important berry crop from an economic perspective in the United States, the nation’s output in 2017 amounted to 16,850 metric tons of processed blackberries and 1,360 metric tons of fresh produce.
In the year 2021, the United States imported a substantial volume of 122,873 metric tons of fresh blackberries and 16,738 metric tons of frozen varieties, with a combined valuation of $519 million and $43 million, respectively.
The overall global production of blackberries is estimated to exceed 900,000 metric tons, positioning it as a considerable contributor to the international landscape of the berry industry.
The continuous evolution and introduction of novel, enhanced blackberry cultivars have been pivotal in satisfying market demands and augmenting blackberry cultivation worldwide.
“Collectively, this recent scientific endeavor not only deepens our comprehension of blackberry genetics but also lays the groundwork for substantial advancements in blackberry breeding methodologies,” stated Dr. Zhanao Deng, a researcher associated with the journal Horticulture Research.
“The eventual outcome could manifest as superior, more resilient blackberry varieties that bring benefits to both producers and consumers across the globe.”
By utilizing an extensive compilation of DNA sequences derived from the experimental blackberry BL1, Dr. Deng and his research team computationally reconstructed the complete genomic sequence of this particular blackberry variety.
A foundational understanding of BL1’s nature as a tetraploid fruit—originating from a plant possessing four sets of chromosomes within its cells—is essential.
This implies that it harbors twice the typical number of chromosomes found in a standard diploid plant, such as a raspberry.
“Engaging with tetraploid genetics presents a greater level of complexity compared to diploid genetics,” Dr. Deng commented.
“The availability of this tetraploid blackberry genome can support more efficient and precisely targeted breeding efforts, ultimately culminating in the development of new cultivars with improved fruit quality and enhanced resistance to prevalent diseases.”
“The reference genome established through this investigation serves as a potent instrument for individuals engaged in any aspect of blackberry research or cultivation.”
The genome assembly also sheds light on the underlying genetic mechanisms responsible for key traits, such as the development of thornless blackberry plants and the biosynthesis of anthocyanins, which significantly influence the fruit’s color characteristics and its associated health benefits.
“This discovery can potentially illuminate the processes by which blackberries acquire their characteristic deep purple to black coloration over time and suggest avenues for optimizing this process to yield more nutritionally enriched berries,” Dr. Deng elaborated.
The research undertaken by the team was formally published in the esteemed scientific periodical, Horticulture Research.
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Dev Paudel et al. 2025. A chromosome-scale and haplotype-resolved genome assembly of tetraploid blackberry (Rubus L. subgenus Rubus Watson). Horticulture Research 12 (6): uhaf052; doi: 10.1093/hr/uhaf052
