Jiansheng Li

Sanya Institute of China Agricultural University, Sanya, 572025, Hainan, China
Author    Correspondence author
Maize Genomics and Genetics, 2024, Vol. 15, No. 3   doi: 10.5376/mgg.2024.15.0011
Received: 18 Mar., 2024    Accepted: 22 Apr., 2024    Published: 05 May, 2024

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Li J.S., 2024, The Columbian exchange: maize’s Global journey and ecological impact, Maize Genomics and Genetics, 15(3): 102-110 (doi: 10.5376/mgg.2024.15.0011)

This study examines the global journey of maize (Zea mays) and its profound ecological impact through the lens of the Columbian Exchange. Maize, originally domesticated in Mesoamerica, was introduced to Europe, Africa, and Asia, where it adapted to various climatic and ecological conditions. The introduction of maize marked a significant event in agricultural history, leading to a profound impact on local ecosystems and cultures. The ecological impact of maize introduction includes changes in soil fertility, agricultural land use, and biodiversity. Meanwhile, the introduction of maize influenced demographic shifts and socio-economic dynamics, underscoring its importance as a global crop. This study highlights maize’s journey through the Columbian Exchange and its ecological and cultural significance, offering a comprehensive understanding of how a single crop can influence global history and ecosystems

Maize (Zea mays); Columbian exchange; Introduction; Global journey; Ecological impact