Difference between Arabica and Robusta coffee
Last updated
Last updated
Although Arabica and Robusta may seem similar in appearance, there are some distinct differences between these two commonly grown coffee varieties. Here's a list of the differences:
1.Growing conditions
Large Arabica coffee trees range from 2.5m to 4.5m (8.2-14.7 ft) tall, with an ambient temperature of 15-24 degrees Celsius (59-75 degrees Fahrenheit) and an average annual rainfall of 1200-2200 mm. Robusta grows in a relatively higher environment, 4.5-6.5m (8.2-21.3 ft) tall, warmer growing temperatures of 18-36 degrees Celsius (64-97 degrees Fahrenheit), and higher rainfall than Arabica 2200-3000mm/year. In terms of output, Arabica yields lower than Robusta if listed per 1-hectare unit cultivated and production costs are higher.
2.Coffee bean shape
Arabica seeds have a slightly longer elliptical shape than Robusta, in contrast, Robusta is rounder. Due to the different bean structure, roasted coffee beans are also different even if roasted under the same roasting conditions.
3.Caffeine and Chlorogenic Acid:
Caffeine and Chlorogenic Acid (ACG) are the source of coffee's bitter taste, which is believed to deter harmful insects and animals. Robusta has a concentration of caffeine and ACG 2 times higher than Arabica so it is stronger in nature.
4.Lipids and sugar levels
Arabica contains 60% more lipids and 2 times more sugar than Robusta. This amount of sugar plays an important role, the roasting process produces a number of important flavor compounds as well as contributing to physical fitness due to its rapid level of water solubility.
5.Pollination
Arabica is a self-pollinating plant, so there are fewer mutations and fewer variations in the life cycle than Robusta.
6.Number of chromosomes
Arabica has a chromosome number of 44 twice that of Robusta's 22, although not comprehensive, these are the fundamental differences between Arabica and Robusta coffee varieties.
Source: coffeechemistry.com
(Original General Expert)
