Core Viewpoint - The research led by Professor Han Zhenhai and his team reveals the evolutionary history and genetic diversity of the apple genus, addressing critical issues in apple breeding and resource utilization in China [1][2][9]. Group 1: Industry Challenges - The apple industry in China faces significant challenges, including a lack of superior germplasm resources, long breeding cycles for core traits, and insufficient application of modern molecular technologies [1]. - There is a pressing need to clarify the genetic basis of apples and the diversity within the genus to support sustainable research and development for variety innovation [1][6]. Group 2: Research Achievements - The team successfully constructed a high-quality genomic resource covering the entire apple genus, which is crucial for understanding its evolutionary mechanisms and genetic diversity [2][6]. - The research identified that cultivated apples have limited genetic diversity, primarily derived from a few closely related ancestral varieties, indicating the need to explore wild species for more resilient genetic resources [3][4]. Group 3: Genetic Insights - The study found that wild apple species possess a richer genetic background and more resistance traits compared to cultivated varieties, which have been selectively bred for desirable fruit characteristics [4][5]. - The research established a phylogenetic relationship among apple species, revealing that the apple genus originated approximately 56 million years ago in Asia, with complex hybridization events contributing to its diversity [6][7]. Group 4: Methodological Innovations - The team utilized a "graph pan-genome" approach, allowing for a more comprehensive view of genetic variations across different species, which is essential for identifying key genes related to traits like disease resistance and cold tolerance [7][8]. - The findings provide a foundation for future breeding programs aimed at developing apple varieties with enhanced resilience to environmental stresses [9].