1. Skip to content
  2. Skip to main menu
  3. Skip to more DW sites
Live TV
Latest audioLatest videos
In focus
India electionsIranIsrael-Hamas war
Nature and Environment

The real gold of the Incas

June 30, 2014

The humble potato is known the world over. But native Peruvian varieties can look quite a bit different than most of us are used to. Some are red or blue, others are long and skinny.

https://p.dw.com/p/1CSVW

More then 4,500 potato varieties are grown in Peru. The wealth of varieties is a natural treasure that's worth preserving, especially in the face of climate change. To do that, scientists are teaming up with Peruvian potato farmers. The researchers benefit from the farmers' knowledge, and in exchange they receive improved seeds for a better harvest. It’s all to ensure that chips, french fries and mashed potatos will remain on menus for generations to come.