A Majority of Macadamia Trees Can Be Traced to One Australian Tree

Hawaii is well-known for many things, including its stunning beaches and luaus. Additionally popular throughout the state, 40 million pounds of macadamia nuts were produced in 2019. Although Australia and South Africa produce the majority of the world's macadamia nuts, their origins are not very diverse. One particular tree in Australia is the source of 70% of the world's macadamia nuts.

Plant biodiversity is a significant issue. Scientists are very interested in this area since the lack of diversity in bananas has already led to the extinction of an entire strain of them. When researchers tried to determine the origins of macadamia trees, they tested samples from domesticated trees in Hawaii and wild trees in Australia. They discovered that all of the samples could be traced to a tiny population on the exclusive island of Moloo. They believe all trees likely originated from one particular tree because the genetic differences between them were so small.