Deciphering the Genetic Variability in Mangalore Melon Genotypes (Cucucmis melo var. acidulus) for Growth, Flowering and Yield Traits

Author: Sowmya H.M., Satish D., Ratnakar M. Shet, Amarananjundeshwara H., Raghavendra G. and Mahesh Y.S.

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Abstract

Mangalore melon is gaining much importance because of its earliness, high production potential with nutritive value and it is the most unique cucurbitaceous vegetable with respect to its keeping quality (8-10 months). Unfortunately, very little work has been done to maintain the genetic purity and development of superior hybrids in Mangalore melon. However, attempts have been made to collect and improve the local cultivars grown in different parts of India for many traits. Seventeen Mangalore melon genotypes (Cucumis melo var. acidulous) were evaluated to estimate the genetic variability for growth, flowering and yield parameters. Results revealed that significant genetic variability present among the genotypes for almost all traits. High estimates of GCV and PCV values were observed for number of fruits per vine, fruit width, fruit length, average fruit weight, fruit yield/vine, mesocarp thickness, seed cavity length and seed cavity width. High estimates of heritability coupled with high values of GAM were observed for the characters viz., Vine length, no. of primary branches, node at first male flower appears, days to first female flower appears, number of female flowers, sex ratio, number of fruits per vine, fruit width, fruit length, average fruit weight, fruit yield/vine, mesocarp thickness, seed cavity length, seed cavity width and test weight, it indicates less environmental influence, broader genetic base and also it depicts presence of additive gene action. MS 78 and MS 34 were found to be high yielding genotypes with the yield of about 9.29 and 5.30 kg/vine respectively.

Keywords

Mangalore melon, genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance

Conclusion

India has been reported to be rich in melon genetic resources, as Mangalore melon is morphologically diverse, especially with regard to fruit traits because of cross pollination and monoecious nature. It can also show non-uniformity in fruit size, shape, color, quality and fruit yield. For attaining the uniformity in these traits, a good understanding of genetic stock of Mangalore melon and selection of superior genotypes is very important for any crop improvement programme that allows higher genetic gain. Collection of genotypes, evaluation and their maintenance could aid in genetic improvement of any crops, and for sustainable production. The results obtained from the study could be used to harness the improvement in genetic traits. The Analysis of variance revealed that there is variability present among the genotypes for all the characters under the study. The estimates of genetic parameters reveals that the characters namely number of fruits per vine, fruit width, fruit length, average fruit weight, fruit yield/vine, mesocarp thickness, seed cavity length and seed cavity width recorded high GCV and PCV. Whereas the traits like vine length, no. of primary branches, node at first male flower appears, days to first female flower appears, number of female flowers, sex ratio, number of fruits per vine, fruit width, fruit length, average fruit weight, fruit yield/vine, mesocarp thickness, seed cavity length, seed cavity width and test weight showed high heritability with high genetic advancement.MS 78, MS 34 and MS 17 were found to be high yielding genotypes with the yield of about 9.29, 5.30 and 5.19 kg/vine respectively.

References

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How to cite this article

Sowmya H.M., Satish D., Ratnakar M. Shet, Amarananjundeshwara H., Raghavendra G. and Mahesh Y.S. (2023). Deciphering the Genetic Variability in Mangalore Melon Genotypes (Cucucmis melo var. acidulus) for Growth, Flowering and Yield Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 377-381.