All rose colors, except yellow, originated from a single genetic mutation in a white rose ancestor. Scientists discovered this by sequencing the genomes of 34 rose species, revealing the evolutionary path of rose color. The ancient yellow rose developed its color independently, while white roses arose through a mutation that suppressed yellow pigment production. Subsequent mutations in this white rose lineage activated alternative pigment pathways, leading to the diverse reds, pinks, and other colors we see in roses today. This finding simplifies the complex rose family tree and provides valuable insights for future rose breeding.
Within the realm of floriculture, a recent investigation into the evolutionary history of Rosa species, commonly known as roses, has yielded a fascinating revelation regarding the ancestral coloration of these beloved blooms. Through meticulous phylogenetic analysis, employing sophisticated molecular techniques to examine the genetic relationships between various rose cultivars and their wild progenitors, researchers have determined that the original rose, the ancient precursor from which all subsequent varieties descended, possessed a yellow hue. This primordial yellow rose served as the foundational genetic template upon which the kaleidoscope of colors observed in modern roses – from the vibrant crimson of a classic Valentine's Day bouquet to the delicate blush of a soft pink tea rose and the pristine purity of a white bridal rose – was subsequently built through millennia of natural selection and, more recently, deliberate human cultivation. The diverse array of pigments responsible for the chromatic splendor displayed by contemporary roses, including anthocyanins which contribute red, purple, and blue tones, and carotenoids which impart yellow and orange hues, arose from genetic modifications and mutations within the ancestral yellow rose genome. Over vast stretches of time, these genetic alterations, influenced by environmental pressures and the selective breeding practices of horticulturists seeking novel aesthetic qualities, led to the diversification of rose coloration, ultimately resulting in the breathtaking spectrum of hues available in rose gardens around the world today. This discovery underscores the remarkable power of evolutionary processes to sculpt the characteristics of living organisms, transforming a single, unassuming yellow blossom into the multifaceted symbol of love, beauty, and passion that the rose represents in contemporary culture.
Summary of Comments ( 1 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43858228
Hacker News users discuss the genetic basis of rose color and the article's claim that all roses were once yellow. Several commenters point out that the article is misleading, as wild roses exhibit a variety of colors, including pink and white, not just yellow. They clarify that the yellow rose mentioned is likely Rosa foetida, which played a significant role in breeding modern roses, particularly contributing yellow hues. Some discuss the complexity of rose genetics and hybridization, questioning the oversimplification presented in the article. Others express interest in the history of rose breeding and the genetic mechanisms responsible for color variation. A few lament the loss of scent in modern roses, attributing it to selective breeding for color and other traits.
The Hacker News post titled "All roses were once yellow" has a modest number of comments, sparking a brief discussion around the original article about rose coloration. The comments don't delve into highly technical details but offer some interesting perspectives and personal anecdotes.
One commenter points out that the claim of all roses originally being yellow isn't strictly true, clarifying that the ancestral rose was likely white. They suggest the article may be oversimplifying the evolutionary history for the sake of brevity. This commenter also links to a 2018 paper which they claim provides a more comprehensive overview of rose evolution.
Another commenter focuses on the aesthetic implications of the yellow origin, musing on the romantic connotations associated with red roses and contrasting them with the "cheery friendliness" often associated with yellow. They ponder whether the cultural significance of red roses would be different if the original roses had remained yellow.
A further comment builds on this by speculating about how different flower colors may have emerged at different stages of plant evolution, influencing their symbolic meanings across various cultures. They suggest that earlier colors might have simpler associations compared to colors that appeared later.
One commenter shares a personal experience of successfully cross-breeding different colored roses in their own garden, offering a tangible example of how color variations can occur. They express excitement about the possibility of new colors being created through continued cross-breeding.
Finally, another commenter notes the increasing prevalence of rainbow-colored roses, created through artificial dye injection methods, and contrasts this artificial approach with the natural evolutionary processes discussed in the article. They express a preference for naturally occurring flower colors.
Overall, the comments offer a mix of scientific clarification, personal reflections, and musings about the cultural impact of flower colors. While not an extensive discussion, the comments provide some engaging perspectives relating to the original article's topic.