Genomics-Assisted Identification of Molecular Markers for Pest and Disease Resistance, Yield and Aroma in Philippine Specialty Coffee

Funded by: PCAARRD

Project Leader: Ernelea Cao, PHD

Coffee (Coffea sp.) is an important commercial crop worldwide. Three species of coffee are used as beverage,Coffea arabica, C. canephora and C. liberica. The Philippines used to be a leading exporter of coffee until coffee rust destroyed the farms in Batangas, home of the famous Kapeng Barako. It has been trying to revive the coffee industry by focusing on specialty coffee using NSIC-registered varieties. Correct identification and isolation of pure coffee beans are the main factors in determining its market value. However, local farms usually misidentify and mix coffee beans of different varieties, depreciating its value. This study will use DNA barcoding, SSR markers and next-generation sequencing (NGS) to evaluate Philippine NSIC-registered varieties that may potentially distinguish not just between coffee species but also within species or varieties. It will also identify markers for pest and disease resistance, yield and aroma in Philippine specialty coffee varieties.