So what can Covid-19 remind us about grapevine genetics? With a wave of stories in recent days about Covid-19 virus mutations and a race for a vaccine - think again about evolution. More than other nations, the New Zealand wine industry is based on millions of copies of just a few individual clones. The Bragato Research Institute is driving the work to identify and provide vines with improved traits and resilience, enabling the protection and growth of the New Zealand wine industry for future generations. While no-one expects grapevines or the Covid-19 virus to evolve beyond recognition in our lifetimes, I can guarantee one thing.

Source: Stuff April 14, 2020 01:30 UTC