Blackberries With No Thorns? UF Scientist Assembles Genome of a Blackberry in Major Step to Breeding Better Fruit

Thornless, disease-resistant, and tastier blackberries could be on the horizon — thanks to new genetic research from the University of Florida. 

New UF blackberry varieties could provide a boon for farmers looking to rebound after the decline of Florida citrus and who see an opportunity to meet the growing demand for blackberries, which have soared in popularity in recent years. 

“Overall, this study not only advances our understanding of blackberry genetics, but it sets the stage for significant improvements in blackberry breeding techniques,” said UF/IFAS researcher Zhanao Deng, who led the study that was recently published in journal Horticulture Research. “The end result could be better, more robust blackberry varieties that benefit both growers and consumers worldwide.”

Over the past 20 years, consumer demand for blackberries has increased, leading to farmers growing more of the flavorful fruit in the United States and across the globe.

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