A phylogeny of nearly all species in the tribe Theobromateae has been published in a multi-national collaboration between 13 institutes. This provides a framework for understanding evolutionary processes amongst cacao's wild relatives.

How have humans influenced the current distribution of Theobroma cacao?

Theobroma grandiflorum or Cupuassu is prized for its nutritious fruits and seeds. A study by a group of Brazilian researchers, presents the complete genome sequence of cupuassu. This permits understanding of its development, unique traits, and genetic relationship to T. cacao and other related species.

A study on the domestication of a species related to cacao has been published in Nature Communications Earth and Environment. Instead of being used to produce chocolate the fruit pulp of this species, Theobroma grandiflorum, is used to produce fruit juice and flavouring.