Molecular basis of African yam domestication: Analyses of selection point to root development, starch biosynthesis, and photosynthesis related genes

Background After cereals, root and tuber crops are the main source of starch in the human diet. Starch biosynthesis was certainly a significant target for selection during the domestication of these crops. But domestication of these root and tubers crops is also associated with gigantism of storage organs and changes of habitat.