Maize Genomics and Genetics 2024, Vol.15, No.2, 80-92 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/mgg 80 Research Insight Open Access The Spread of Maize from Southern Mexico: Genetic and Archaeological Perspectives Jiansheng Li Sanya Institute of China Agricultural University, Sanya, 572025, Hainan, China Corresponding email: lijiansheng@cau.edu.cn Maize Genomics and Genetics, 2024, Vol.15, No.2 doi: 10.5376/mgg.2024.15.0009 Received: 15 Feb., 2024 Accepted: 25 Mar., 2024 Published: 10 Apr., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Li, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Li J.S., 2024, The spread of maize from southern Mexico: genetic and archaeological perspectives, Maize Genomics and Genetics, 15(2): 80-92 (doi: 10.5376/mgg.2024.15.0009) Abstract Maize (Zeamays), domesticated from its wild ancestor teosinte in southern Mexico around 9 000 years ago, has become one of the most important staple crops globally. This research integrates genetic and archaeological data to trace the domestication, dissemination, and impact of maize. Genetic evidence pinpoints the Balsas River Valley as the center of domestication, with subsequent spread facilitated by genetic diversity and adaptive introgression with local teosinte populations. Archaeological findings corroborate these genetic insights, revealing early cultivation sites and trade routes that enabled maize to adapt to diverse environments across the Americas. The spread of maize significantly influenced ancient agricultural practices, economic structures, and cultural rituals, underlining its role in shaping complex societies. Modern implications emphasize the importance of genetic diversity for breeding resilient maize varieties and the need for interdisciplinary research to address contemporary agricultural challenges. This research highlights the transformative journey of maize from its origin to its current global significance, providing a comprehensive understanding of its past, present, and future. Keywords Maize domestication; Genetic diversity; Archaeological evidence; Crop adaptation; Agricultural practices 1 Introduction Maize (Zeamays), commonly known as corn, stands as one of the most vital crops in global agriculture. It serves not only as a staple food for millions of people but also as a fundamental component in animal feed, biofuel production, and numerous industrial applications (Ramos-Madrigal et al., 2016; Smith et al., 2018). The versatility of maize and its adaptability to diverse climatic conditions have allowed it to become a cornerstone of food security and economic stability in many regions across the world. Its high yield potential and significant nutritional value further underline its critical role in sustaining the growing global population (Tenaillon and Charcosset, 2011; Galvan et al., 2019). Understanding the origins and spread of maize is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it provides insights into the processes of domestication and crop evolution, which are fundamental to improving current agricultural practices and developing more resilient crop varieties (Aguirre-Liguori et al., 2016; Zahn et al., 2018). Tracing the historical pathways of maize dispersal helps elucidate the cultural and economic exchanges among ancient civilizations, highlighting the role of maize in the development of complex societies (Kistler er al., 2018; 2020). Finally, knowledge of maize's genetic diversity and adaptation mechanisms is essential for addressing contemporary challenges such as climate change, food security, and sustainable agriculture (Orozco-Ramírez et al., 2016; Lohse et al., 2022). This study aims to synthesize genetic and archaeological evidence to provide a comprehensive overview of the genetic diversity within the genus Zea, with a particular focus on the domestication and dissemination of maize from its origin in southern Mexico. By integrating findings from diverse fields, this paper seeks to elucidate the complex interplay between human activity and genetic evolution that has driven the expansion of maize. The significance of this work lies in its potential to inform current and future efforts in maize conservation and improvement. By understanding the genetic underpinnings and historical trajectories of maize, researchers and agriculturalists can better address contemporary challenges in food security and crop sustainability.
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