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Watermelon: A Valuable Horticultural Crop with Nutritional Benefits

  • February 2018
Authors:
Dr Reetu at Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute Jhansi
Dr Reetu
  • Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute Jhansi
Maharishi Tomar at Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute
Maharishi Tomar
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Abstract

Watermelon is an important fruit crop. It is a newly introduced cash crop gaining a high level of economic importance in the generation of income and provision of nutritional value. Watermelon flesh contains high quantity of vitamins, minerals and other antioxidant compounds which play important role in human metabolism. Antioxidant components help in preventing human disease by acting as oxygen radical scavenger. Watermelon rind and seed also have many health benefits due to the presence of important amino acids citrulline, fibres, minerals and phenolic compounds
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Watermelon: A Valuable Horticultural Crop with Nutritional Benefits
Reetu
1
* and Maharishi Tomar
2
1
ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi-110012
2
ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute, Shimla (H. P.), India
*Email of corresponding author: reetu.nbpgr@gmail.com
Introduction
Fruits are concentrated source of natural components. These natural components are plant
derived materials performing a key role in maintaining human health, especially in disease
prevention, growth and development. In the recent era, phyto-nutrients, particularly from fruits
and vegetables, are becoming popular due to consumer awareness regarding their health-
enhancing potential (Naz et al., 2013). Plants and plant-based compounds are the basis of many
of the modern pharmaceuticals used today for the treatment of various dreadful diseases.
Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) botanically considered as the fruit is belonging to the
family Cucurbitaceae (Edwards et al., 2003). Cucurbitaceae family ranks among the highest of
plant families for number and percentage of species used as human food. The common name of
watermelon is Tarbooz (Hindi and Urdu), Tarbuj (Manipuri), Kaduvrindavana (Marathi),
Eriputccha (Telegu), Kallangadiballi (Kannada), Tormuj (Bengali), Indrak (Gujarati).
Watermelon is originated from Kalahari Desert of Africa but nowadays cultivated abundantly in
tropical regions of the world. It has great economic importance with 29.6 million tonnes
estimated production worldwide. According to the National Institute of Industrial Research,
watermelon is cultivated in Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Orissa, Gujarat, Punjab,
Haryana, Assam, West Bengal, Karnataka, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Tamil
Nadu.
Physical Characteristics
It is a large, sprawling annual plant with coarse, hairy pinnately-lobed leaves and yellow flowers.
It is grown for its edible fruit, which is a special kind of berry
botanically called a pepo. The
watermelon fruit has deep green smooth thick exterior rind with grey or light green vertical
stripes. Inside the fruit is red in colour with small black seeds embedded in the middle third of
the flesh (Wehner et al., 2001).
Watermelon is an important fruit crop. It is a newly introduced cash crop gaining a
high level of economic importance in the generation of income and provision of
nutritional value. Watermelon flesh contains high quantity of vitamins, minerals and
other antioxidant compounds which play important role in human metabolism.
Antioxidant components help in preventing human disease by acting as oxygen radical
scavenger. Watermelon rind and seed also have many health benefits due to the
presence of important amino acids citrulline, fibres, minerals and phenolic
compounds.
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Leaves Flower
Leaves Flower
Fruits Seeds
Figure: Citrullus lanatus leaves, flower, fruit and seeds
Watermelons range in shape from round to oblong. Rind colours can be light to dark green, with
or without stripes. Flesh colours can be dark red, red or yellow. India grows approximately 25
commercial varieties, a few of which have delightfully interesting names: New Hampshire
Midget, Madhuri 64, Black Magic, Sugar Baby, Asahi Yamato, Arka Jyoti, Arka Manik,
Improved Shipper, Durgapura Meetha and Durgapura Kesar to name a few. Watermelon
varieties fall into three broad classes based on how the seed was developed: open-pollinated,
F
1
-hybrid and triploid or seedless.
Cultivation
Watermelon is grown in sandy loam soil rich in organic matter with good drainage and pH range
for 6.5-7.5 (Kumar et al., 2013).In North Indian plains, watermelons are sown in February-
March whereas in Northeastern and Western India best time of sowing is from November to
January. In South and Central India, these can be grown almost round the year.
Watermelon is a warm season crop grown mainly in sub-tropical and hot-arid regions.
Temperature range of 24-27
0
C is considered as optimum for the growth of the vines. Cool nights
and warm days are ideal for accumulation of sugars in the fruits. The seed germinates best when
temperatures are higher than 20
0
C. High humidity at the time of vegetative growth renders the
crop susceptible to various fungal diseases.
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Planting and transplanting: Watermelon can be direct seeded in the field or grown as
transplants seedling in pots and then transplanted to the field. Before sowing seeds are soaked in
warm water for 12 hours. Normally 3.5 kg of seed of watermelon is required for planting one ha
area. The hills are usually spaced 1 to 1.5 meters apart in the rows also 2 to 2.5 meters apart. A
variation of spacing hills 4meters apart in the rows 1.5 meters apart are also commonly used in
the tropics. Apply FYM 20 t/ha, P 55 kg and K 55 kg as basal and N 55 kg/ha 30 days after
sowing.
Weeds and insect control: Depending upon the season about 2-3 weeding operations is
required. The first weeding should be done 20-25 days after sowing while subsequent weeding is
done at an interval of one month. The biggest watermelon pest is the leaf-eating beetles, they
damage the flowers. The other main problem with growing watermelons is mildew, a fungus that
makes the leaves look as if they were coated with white powder.
Yield and yield components: The total yield of watermelon is a function of marketable yield,
fruit count, percent cull, percent early fruit and fruit size (Dia, 2012a; Dia et al., 2012b; Dia et
al., 2012c). Marketable yield ranges from a high of 80.44 to a low of 27.43 Mg/ha. Total fruit
count ranges from 1.61 to 6.31 thousand fruits/ha. Similarly, percent cull fruit, percent early fruit
and fruit size range from 23.42-20.55%, 49.9-17.4%, and 01.72-14.56 kg/fruit, respectively (Dia
et al., 2016a).Among quality traits, lycopene and sugar range from 8.76 to 52.15 mg/kg and 8.47
to 14.02 ºBrix, respectively (Dia et al., 2016b). Variation in watermelon yield and quality is
governed by fluctuation in the external environment (Dia et al., 2016c).
Harvesting and storage: The crop is ready for harvest in about 75-100 days after sowing. For
local market, harvesting should be done at full maturity while for transporting to distant markets,
it is done slightly earlier. Watermelons can be stored for 14 days at 15°C. Watermelons should
not be stored with apples and bananas as the ethylene produced during storage from these fruits
hastens softening and development of off flavour to watermelons.
Nutritional Value of Fresh Watermelon
Watermelon is one of the commonly consumed fruits in many countries. Watermelon contains
more than 91% water and up to 7% of carbohydrates. It is a rich source of lycopene and
citrulline. Watermelon rind contains more amounts of citrulline then flesh. Additionally,
watermelon has a number of essential micronutrients and vitamins.
Table: Nutritive value per 100 g of flesh
Components
Nutrient Value
Percentage of Recommended Daily Allowance
Energy
30 Kcal
1.5%
Carbohydrates
7.6 g
6 %
Protein
0.6 g
1%
Total Fat
0.15 g
0.5%
Dietary Fiber
0.4 g
1%
Vitamins
Niacin
0.178 mg
1%
Pantothenic Acid
0.221 mg
4.5%
Vitamin A
569
mg
19%
Vitamin C
8.1 mg
13.5%
Electrolytes
Potassium
112 mg
2.5%
Iron
0.24 mg
3 %
Manganese
0.038 mg
1.5 %
Zinc
0.10 mg
1%
Phyto
-
nutrients
Carotene
-
alpha
303
µg
-
Lycopene
4532
µg
-
Source: USDA National Nutrient Database
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Health Benefits of Watermelon
Heart health: Watermelon contains high levels of lycopene that is very effective in protect cells
from damage and lower the risk of heart disease. Watermelon extracts help to reduce
hypertension and lower blood pressure in obese adults. Watermelon fruit is also a good source of
potassium. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps controlling
heart rate and blood pressure. Thus, it prevents against stroke and coronary heart diseases (Le et
al., 2005).
Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant support: Anti-inflammatory foods can help with overall
immunity and general health. The lycopene in watermelon makes it an anti-inflammatory fruit.
Lycopene is an inhibitor for various inflammatory processes and also works as an antioxidant to
neutralize free radicals (Edwards et al., 2003). It also contains a good amount of vitamin-B6
(pyridoxine), vitamin–C and manganese. Consumption of food rich in vitamin–C helps the body
develop resistance against infectious agents and scavenge harmful oxygen-free radicals.
Manganese is used by the body as a co-factor for the antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase.
Watermelon is an excellent source of Vitamin A, which is a powerful natural antioxidant. It is
one of the essential vitamins for vision and immunity.
Hydration and digestion: Watermelons are the perfect example of a food that can help you stay
hydrated. Watermelons are nature gift to beat summer thirst due to rich in electrolytes and water
content. The watermelon contains fibre, which encourages a healthy digestive tract and helps
keep you regular.
Skin and hair benefits: Vitamin A helps keep skin and hair moisturized and it also encourages
healthy growth of new collagen and elastin cells. Vitamin C is also beneficial in this regard, as it
promotes healthy collagen growth.
Cancer prevention: Like other fruits and vegetables, watermelons may be helpful in reducing
the risk of cancer through their antioxidant properties. According to the National Cancer
Institute
,
Lycopene help in reducing prostate cancer cell proliferation. Consumption of natural
fruits rich in vitamin-A is known to protect from lung and oral cavity cancers
You can eat watermelon rind and seeds: Most people throw away the watermelon rind and
seeds. Rind not only contains plenty of health-promoting and blood-building chlorophyll, but the
rind actually contains important amino acid citrulline than the flesh. Citrulline is a non-protein
amino acid and was first identified from watermelon. Citrulline is used in the nitric oxide system
in humans and has antioxidant and vasodilatation roles (
Rimando et al., 2005)
. According to
2013 study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, citrulline improves
circulation by reducing muscle soreness and heart rate. Many people prefer seedless watermelon
varieties, but black watermelon seeds are quite healthy and edible. They contain iron, zinc,
protein, and fibre.
Conclusion
Watermelons are very good source of important nutritive components and contained a very high
concentration of nutrients for human consumption. It also contains different components of
medicinal values. Therefore, it would be \more effective in healthcare management.
Additionally, watermelon rind and seed is a rich source of an important amino acid and minerals.
These exceptional qualities of watermelon and its products warrant us to use it for health
benefits.
References
Dia M (2012a). Genotype × Environment Interaction and Stability Analysis of Performance, and
Mega-Environment Identification of Fruit Yield and Yield Components in Watermelon
[Citrullus lanatus (Thumb.) Matsum & Nakai] Tested in Multiple US Locations. Ph.D.
diss. North Carolina State University, Raleigh.
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Dia M, Wehner TC, Hassell R, Price DS, Boyhan GE, Olson S, King S, Davis AR, Tolla GE,
Bernier J, Juarez B, Sari N, Solmaz I, and Aras V (2012b). Mega-environment
identification for watermelon yield testing in the US. Cucurbitaceae Proceedings of the
X
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EUCARPIA Meeting on Genetics and Breeding of Cucurbitaceae, Antalya, Turkey,
15-18 October, 2012. University of Cukurova, Ziraat Fakultesi. P. 385-390.
Dia M, Wehner TC, Hassell R, Price DS, Boyhan GE, Olson S, King S, Davis AR, Tolla GE,
Bernier J, Juarez B, Sari N, Solmaz I and Aras V. (2012c) Stability of fruit yield in
watermelon genotypes tested in multiple US environments. Cucurbitaceae. Proceedings
of the Xth EUCARPIA Meeting on Genetics and Breeding of Cucurbitaceae, Antalya,
Turkey, 15-18 October, 2012. University of Cukurova, Ziraat Fakultesi. P. 84-88.
Dia M, Wehner TC, Hassell R, Price DS, Boyhan GE, Olson S, King S, Davis AR and Tolla GE
(2016a). Genotype × environment interaction and stability analysis for watermelon fruit
yield in the U.S. Crop Sci. 56: 1645-1661. doi: 10.2135/cropsci2015.10.0625.
Dia M, Wehner TC, Hassell R, Price DS, Boyhan GE, Olson S, King S, Davis AR and Tolla GE
(2016b). Values of locations for representing mega-environments and for discriminating
yield of watermelon in the United States. Crop Sci. 56: 1726-1735.
doi:10.2135/cropsci2015.11.0698.
Dia M, Wehner TC, Perkins-Veazie P, Hassell R, Price DS, Boyhan GE, Olson S, King S, Davis
AR, Tolla GE, Bernier J and Juarez B (2016c). Stability of fruit quality traits in diverse
watermelon cultivars tested in multiple environments. Horticulture Research, 23:
16066. doi: 10.1038/hortres.2016.66.
Edwards AJ, Vinyard BT, Wiley ER, Brown ED, Collins JK, Perkins-Veazie P (2003).
Consumption of watermelon juice increases plasma concentrations of lycopene and β-
carotene in humans. Journal of Nutrition 133, 1043-50.
Kumar R, Dia M and Wehner TC (2013). Implications of mating behavior in watermelon
breeding. Hort Sci. 48(8), 960-964.
Le J, Chuan JD, Andy HL and Colin WE (2005). Do dietary lycopene and other carotenoids
protect against prostate cancer? International Journal of Cancer 113: 1010-1014.
Naz A, Butt MS, Pasha I and Nawaz H (2013). Antioxidant Indices of Watermelon Juice and
Lycopene Extract. Pakistan Journal of Nutrition 12 (3), 255-260.
Rimando AM and Perkins-Veazie PM. (2005). Determination of citrulline in watermelon rind.
Journal of Chromatography A 1078: 196–200.
Wehner TC, Shetty NV and Elmstrom GW. (2001). Breeding and seed production. In:
watermelons, characteristics, production and marketing. D. N. Maynard (Ed.). ASHS
Press, Alexandria, VA, P. 27-73.
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... Watermelon has elevated level of economic as well as nutritional importance. Watermelon fruit contains Protein (0.6g/100g flesh), Dietary fibre (0.4g/100g), Total fat (0.15g/100g), Niacin (0.178mg/100g), Pentothenic acid (0.221mg/100g), Vitamin A (569mg/100g), Vitamin C (8.1mg/100g), Potassium (112mg/100g), Iron (0.24mg/100g), Manganese (0.038mg/100g), Zinc (0.10mg/100g) and phytonutrients like Carotene-alpha (303µg/100g), Lycopene (4532µg/100g) (Verma et al., 2017) [7] . It is additionally considered as a rich wellspring of lycopene and citrulline. ...
... Watermelon has elevated level of economic as well as nutritional importance. Watermelon fruit contains Protein (0.6g/100g flesh), Dietary fibre (0.4g/100g), Total fat (0.15g/100g), Niacin (0.178mg/100g), Pentothenic acid (0.221mg/100g), Vitamin A (569mg/100g), Vitamin C (8.1mg/100g), Potassium (112mg/100g), Iron (0.24mg/100g), Manganese (0.038mg/100g), Zinc (0.10mg/100g) and phytonutrients like Carotene-alpha (303µg/100g), Lycopene (4532µg/100g) (Verma et al., 2017) [7] . It is additionally considered as a rich wellspring of lycopene and citrulline. ...
View
... (Cucurbitaceae) consumption exceeds that of any other cucurbit, and in Nigeria, it is attracting very high consumer interest due to increase in knowledge of its health and nutritional benefits (Okrikata et al., 2020). Nevertheless, as shown in other parts of the world (Lima et al., 2014;Reetu and Tomar, 2017), watermelon can hardly be productive in without pest control interventions in Nigeria (Okrikata et al., 2019). This is due to a complex of insect pests, particularly leaf beetle species [mainly: Aulacophora africana (Weise), Asbecesta nigripennis (Weise), Asbecesta transversa (Allard), Monolepta nigeriae (Bryant)-Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae, Epilachna chrysomelina (Fabricius) -Coleoptera: Coccinellidae] and the melon fruit fly, Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquillett)-Diptera: Tephritidae which infest the crop (from seedling to fruiting stages) with more than 50% yield losses and sometimes, complete crop failure . ...
IMPACT OF SYNTHETIC AND/OR BIOPESTICIDE FORMULATIONS ON DOMINANT PESTS AND PRODUCTIVITY OF WATERMELON
Article
Full-text available
  • Oct 2022
Impact of a biopesticide formulation, Neem, Azadirachta indica A. Juss. (Meliaceae) plus Garlic, Allium sativum L. (Amaryllidaceae) Oil Emulsion-NGOE in watermelon production was investigated in early-and late-season field trials of 2020. Data collected include densities of leaf beetle species [Aulacophora africana (Weise), Asbecesta nigripennis (Weise), Asbecesta transversa (Allard), Monolepta nigeriae (Bryant)-Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae, and Epilachna chrysomelina (Fabricius)-Coleoptera: Coccinellidae], and melon fruit fly [Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquillett)-Diptera: Tephritidae] using a modified Grizzly 2500/8 leaf blower-vac. Data were subjected to variance analysis after appropriate transformation. Results showed that, overall, the most efficient treatment was either 0.125% Magicforce ®-Lambda-cyhalothrin 15g/L+Dimethoate 300 g/L (MF)+5% NGOE or 0.25% MF in terms of pest suppression across seasons. Similarly, assessment of change in population densities revealed that either 0.25% MF or 0.125% MF+5% NGOE was the most suppressive of the the pest species across seasons. Same trend was observed with respect to leaf injury, growth parameters and fruit damage. Plots treated with 0.125% MF+5% NGOE consistently produced the highest number of fruits (18,615.06±457.00 and 16,404.02±1,526.25 in the early-and late-season crop), followed by those treated with 0.25% MF (values: 17165.16±488.17 and 15,708.50±1,411.93). The study underscored the effectiveness of Magicforce ® in suppressing watermelon pest (leaf beetles and the melon fruit fly) and improving yield, and also highlighted the potential of neem plus garlic oils formulation in suppressing pests of watermelon and their compatibility.
View
... exceeds that of any other cucurbit in the world and it is attracting very high consumer interest in Nigeria as a result of rising understanding of its nutritional and health benefits (Okrikata et al., 2020). However, as reported in other parts of the world (Lima et al., 2014;Reetu and Tomar, 2017), watermelon can hardly be produced in Nigeria without pest control interventions (Okrikata et al., 2019). This is because a complex of arthropod pests, particularly leaf beetle species, infest the crop (from seedling to fruiting stage) with a resultant > 50% yield losses and sometimes even total crop failure . ...
Neem Plus Garlic Oils Biopesticide Formulation: Safe and Efficient in Watermelon Pest Management
Article
Full-text available
  • Sep 2022
To investigate the impact of a novel biopesticide formulation (neem plus garlic oil emulsion-NGOE) in watermelon production, field trials were laid in the early-and late-cropping season of 2020. Watermelon seeds (var. Sweet Sangria F1) were sown in 36 plots which were grouped into 4 replicates of 9 treatments. Data collected include densities of leaf beetles, spiders and Apis mellifera L. (bees) using a modified Grizzly 2500/8 leaf blower-vac. All data were subjected to variance analysis after appropriate transformation. Results showed that the most efficient treatment with respect to leaf beetles was 0.125% Magicforce®-Lambda-cyhalothrin 15g/L + Dimethoate 300 g/L (MF) + 5% NGOE in the early-crop, and 0.25% MF in the late-crop. Assessment of change in population densities revealed that 0.25% MF, followed by 0.125% MF + 5% NGOE was most suppressive of A. mellifera in the early-crop. Corresponding ordering in the late-crop was: 0.25% MF followed by 0.125% MF + 3% NGOE. While treatment with NGOE suppressed ants by 27.99-56.21%, 0.25% MF did it by 45.49-63.51%. Similar trend was observed with respect to ant and spider densities. Though 0.125% MF + 5% NGOE treated plots consistently produced the highest number of fruits, followed by 0.25% MF, statistical analyses showed that except for 1% NGOE, other insecticide treatments were comparable in the late-, but not in the early-crop. While the effectiveness of Magicforce® in suppressing pest and improving yield of watermelon was highlighted, the potential of neem plus garlic oils formulation in managing pests of watermelon while relatively favouring the activities of beneficial arthropods, and improving yield was clearly noticeable.
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... It thrives in the tropical region and has been grown for thousands of years in the Middle East (Syria, Egypt, Jordan, Tunisia, Lebanon, etc.) and Southeast Asia (Erukainure et al., 2010). It is widely consumed worldwide because it is very rich in nutrients such as phytonutrients and antioxidants lycopene (Reetu and Tomar, 2017). ...
EFFECT OF THE APPLICATION OF DIFFERENT RATES OF NPK FERTILIZER FOR OPTIMUM VEGETATIVE GROWTH AND YIELD OF WATERMELON (Citrullus lanatus L). IN EJIGBO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, OSUN STATE
Article
Full-text available
  • Jan 2021
The importance of applying inorganic fertilizers to boost the good growth of watermelon cannot be over emphasized. However, awareness of the negative environmental impact of the excessive use make it important to determine the right rate that could be applied to achieve optimum growth and yield of watermelon in a sustainable manner. An experiment was therefore conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm, Osun State University Ejigbo to investigate the effect of different rates of NPK fertilizer on the growth and yield of watermelon. The experimental field was laid in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Application of NPK 20-10-10 fertilizer commenced at 2 weeks after sowing at the rates of 100kg/ha, 150kg/ha, 200kg/ha and control (No fertilizer application) on each block respectively. Cultural practices were carried out to control weeds and pests. Data were collected on vegetative parameters (vein length, number of nodes, leaf number, leaf length, leaf breadth and leaf area index), and yield components; fruit weight (kg), fruit length (cm) and fruit width (cm). Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the significant means were separated using Least Mean Square using the GLM procedure of SAS (Version 9.4). The results showed highly significant differences in all the vegetative growth parameters, fruit length (44.04cm) and fruit breadth (263.93cm) but significant variation for fruit weight (2.21kg). The plants treated with 200 kg / ha of fertilizer gave the highest fruit weight and fruit breadth (2.05kg and 54.47cm respectively) as well as number of nodes (9.67), vine length (104.13cm), number of leaf (25.07) and leaf area index (233.79). 100kg/ha of NPK gave the highest value for fruit length (29.13cm). The application of NPK fertilizer at the rate of 200kg/ha is therefore recommended for optimum vegetative growth and yield of watermelon in Ejigbo Local Government area of Osun State.
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... Despite phytoconstituents and nutritional constituents, C. lanatus seed was dumped as industrial waste. However, proximate and phytochemical analyzes revealed that C. lanatus seed might have health advantages (Perkins-Veazie et al., 2007;Rabiu and Muhammad, 2015;Reetu and Tomar, 2017). C. lanatus seed rich in proteins (32.1%), fats (59.2%), fiber (8.2%), carbohydrates (4.5%) (Alka et al., 2012;El-Adawy and Taha, 2001;Morais et al., 2017). ...
Scientific basis for medicinal use of Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) in diarrhea and asthma: In vitro, in vivo and in silico studies
Article
Background Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, commonly farmed as an edible vegetable around the globe. It has been used in traditional therapies in addition to nutritional advantages. Traditional herbal practitioners employ C. lanatus seeds to treat gastrointestinal, respiratory, and urinary diseases in Pakistan and India. However, more investigation is needed to understand the effect of C. lanatus seeds on treating gastrointestinal, respiratory, and urinary disorders. Purpose This research aimed to use network pharmacology and molecular docking to understand multi-target mechanisms of C. lanatus seeds against asthma and diarrhea and to validate its effects using biological tests to investigate antispasmodic and bronchodilator capabilities. Methods The ground seeds of C. lanatus were extracted in hexane, dichloromethane, ethanol, and aqueous for sequential extracts. The bioactive components in sequential extracts of C. lanatus seeds were identified using LC ESI-MS/MS, and specific compounds were quantified using HPLC. The quantified bioactive compounds of C. lanatus were subjected to in silico studies for network pharmacology and molecular docking to elucidate their role in antispasmodic and bronchodilator properties. The sequential extracts were tested on isolated rabbit tissue, i.e., jejunum, trachea, and urinary bladder. The antiperistalsis, antidiarrheal and antisecretory studies were also performed in animal models. Results In silico studies indicate that bioactive chemicals from sequential extracts of C. lanatus seeds interfere with asthma and diarrhea-associated pathogenic genes. Those are members of calcium mediate signaling, cholinergic synapse, regulation of cytosolic calcium concentration, smooth muscle contraction, and inflammatory responses. It was also found that rutin, quercitrin, stearic acid, umbelliferone, and kaempferol were stronger binding to voltage-gated calcium channels and muscarinic M3 receptor, thus exerting calcium channel blocker activity and cholinergic receptor stimulant response. On isolated jejunum, trachea, and urinary preparations, sequential extracts of C. lanatus seeds elicited the spasmolytic response and showed the relaxation of spastic contractions of K⁺ (80 mM) and carbachol (1 µM). Furthermore, it induced a non-parallel rightward shift in calcium concentration-response curves with suppression. In animal models, C. lanatus seed extracts exhibited partially or completely antiperistalsis, antidiarrheal, and antisecretory effects. Conclusion Thus, Citrullus lanatus had therapeutic benefits by modulating the contractile response through calcium-mediated signaling target proteins, hence exerting bronchodilator and antidiarrheal properties. The current study provides evidence for further mechanistic studies and the development of C. lanatus seeds as a potential therapeutic intervention for patients with gastrointestinal, respiratory, and urinary disorders.
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... Fruits are a concentrated source of natural com ponents, and these natural components are plant derived materials performing a key role in maintain ing human health, especially in disease prevention, growth, and development. Today, plants, and plant based compounds are the basis of modern pharma ceuticals used for the treatment of various dreadful diseases (Reetu and Tomar, 2017). Fruits such as mango, organs, guava, pear, and watermelon are life enhancing medicines packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to human as well as cash crops for export by the growers in The Gambia. ...
Assessment of pesticide residues level in watermelon fruits [Citrullus lanatus (Thunberg) Matsumura and Nakai] in Lower, Central and Upper Badibou Districts in North Bank Region, of the Gambia
Article
Full-text available
  • Mar 2021
Field and laboratory studies were conducted late 2019 in three districts of the Gambia’s North Bank Region; namely, Central Badibou, Lower Badibou and Upper Badibou to ascertain the pesticide residue level in watermelon fruit, determine the insect pest control methods, types of pesticide, frequency of application, and pre-harvest interval observed. Multistage sampling technique was used in selecting the research respondents. Eighty-five (85) farmers were identified; forty-five (45) were randomly selected as research respondents. Data was collected using structured questionnaires. SPSS Software was used to analyse the questionnaires and Gas Chromatograph to determine the pesticide residue level. Data obtained were analysed and compared with the European Union Maximum Residue Limit (MRL). The results of the analysis revealed that the farmers used chemical control method in watermelon production, and applied at frequency of once in every two weeks. Furthermore, the results indicated that the chemical applied at flowering stage and the pre-harvest interval (17-21 days) ranked the highest. The pesticides residues found in the watermelon samples were Dimethoate, Profenophos, Dicofol, Cypermethrin, Lambda-cyhalothrin, Permethrin and Deltamethrin and most were above the MRL. The presence of pesticides residues in the watermelon samples calls for strict regulation on the use of pesticides on watermelon. Further study is recommended in other fruits and vegetables grown in the country especially in the studied region.
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... Hama semangka tersering dijumpai adalah kumbang pemakan daun yang merusak bunga. Masalah lainnya adalah serangan jamur tepung (powdery mildew), yang membuat daun tampak seolaholah dilapisi dengan bubuk putih (Reetu and Tomar, 2017). Perawatan tanaman dalam masa vegetatif dilakukan dengan cara menyiram tanaman secara rutin setiap hari, memberi pupuk dengan komposisi makro dan mikro nutrien yang cukup. ...
Pengembangan Benih Unggul Semangka Citra Jingga Melalui Teknik Kastrasi dan Polinasi di Desa Depokrejo, Purworejo, Jawa Tengah
Article
Full-text available
  • May 2021
Semangka (Citrullus lanatus (Thunberg.) Matsum & Nakai) merupakan tanaman hortikultura yang termasuk dalam familia Cucurbitaceae. Buah ini memiliki keunggulan dalam hal efisiensi selama penanaman dan produktivitas buah yang dihasilkan. Desa Depokrejo, Ngombol, Purworejo, Jawa Tengah merupakan salah satu wilayah sentra budidaya semangka yang sangat potensial untuk dikembangkan. Saat ini masyarakat Desa Depokrejo masih bergantung terhadap produk benih impor dengan harga yang cukup mahal. Salah satu upaya untuk menekan biaya produksi akibat pembelian benih yaitu melalui penerapan pemuliaan tanaman dengan teknik kastrasi dan polinasi. Program ini bertujuan untuk memberikan edukasi mengenai teknik kastrasi dan polinasi semangka kepada masyarakat untuk medorong lahirnya benih lokal yang berkualitas. Metode yang digunakan yaitu penyuluhan mengenai teknik budidaya semangka, pelatihan teknik kastrasi, dan polinasi pada semangka serta pendampingan berkala selama pemeliharaan buah dan pemanenan. Hasil dari porgram ini adalah kelompok tani Desa Depokrejo secara umum telah memahami teknik budidaya semangka mulai dari persiapan media tanam, penanaman, perawatan hingga penanganan terhadap kondisi tanaman yang kurang baik. Saat ini masyarakat Desa Depokrejo telah mampu menghasilkan benih semangka Citra Jingga hasil kastrasi dan polinasi sebagai produk benih semangka baru yang dapat dipasarkan di industri pertanian.
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... In Nigeria, there is an increasing demand for it. This is largely due to the growing awareness of its nutritional, health and economic value (Reetu and Tomar, 2017;Okrikata et al., 2019a). As in many parts of the world, watermelon production has been shown to be suppressed by a complex of arthropods like aphids, leaf beetles, white flies, stinkbugs, crickets and millipedes with no growth stage exempted from infestation resulting in 30 -100% yield losses (Shagufta, 2012;Okrikata and Ogunwolu, 2017;Okrikata et al., 2019a). ...
Impact of doubling the recommended dose of Magicforce (Lambda-Cyhalothrin + Dimethoate) on major associated arthropods and performance of watermelon
Article
Full-text available
  • May 2021
Some crop growers hold the view that application of pesticides at higher than the manufacturer's recommended doses results in better pest control and crop productivity. The veracity of this perception was evaluated in field experiments at the experimental field of Federal University Wukari. A recommended insecticide and acaricide; ® Magicforce (Lambda-cyhalothrin 15g/L + Dimethoate 300 g/L) was evaluated against insect pests of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus Thunb.) and other associated beneficial arthropods. The experiments were laid in a Randomized Complete Block Design with five treatments (control inclusive). Data collected includes arthropod (pest and beneficial) densities, crop growth, and number of fruits at the early-fruiting stage which were analyzed using variance analysis after appropriate transformations. Student's t-test was used to compare early-and late-season's variables while correlation and regression analyses were used to determine relationships between key variables. Results showed that plots treated with double the highest manufacturer's recommended dose of ® Magicforce (cost implication of N144,000) had lower pest (leaf beetle species and Bactrocera cucurbitae) and beneficial arthropod (predatory ants, spiders and Apis mellifera) densities than those treated with the lowest (cost-N48,000) and highest (cost-N72,000) recommended doses. Their plant growth (vine length and number of leaves) and fruit production were however comparatively lower though largely statistically comparable. The ® relationship between the quantity of Magicforce applied and number of fruits produced were though positive, 2 2 only moderate and insignificant in both early-(r = 0.665, R = 44.3%, p = 0.220) and late-(r = 0.659, R = 43.4%, p = 0.227) crops. The results revealed that the application of double the manufacturer's recommended dose of ® Magicforce (with its comparatively higher cost implication of 100-200%) suppressed growth of watermelon by 1.96-6.20%, and impeded fruit production by 9.14-13.30%. While there is need to verify the mechanism of this key finding, the need to source for genuine pesticides and follow manufacturer's recommended doses are highlighted. ABSTRACT 063
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Integrated Mechanisms of Polarity–Based Extracts of Cucumis melo L. Seed Kernels for Airway Smooth Muscle Relaxation via Key Signaling Pathways Based on WGCNA, In Vivo, and In Vitro Analyses
Article
Full-text available
  • Dec 2022
The present study aimed to determine the mechanisms responsible for calcium–mediated smooth muscle contractions in C. melo seeds. The phytochemicals of C. melo were identified and quantified with the aid of Liquid Chromatography Electrospray Ionization Tandem Mass Spectrometric (LC/ESI–MS/MS) and high–performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and then tested in–vitro and in vivo to confirm involvement in smooth muscle relaxation. Allergic asthma gene datasets were acquired from the NCBI gene expression omnibus (GEO) and differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis, weighted gene co–expression network analysis (WGCNA), and functional enrichment analysis were conducted. Additionally, molecular docking of key genes was carried out. Kaempferol, rutin, and quercetin are identified as phytochemical constituents of C. melo seeds. Results indicated that C. melo seeds exhibit a dose–dependent relaxant effect for potassium chloride (80 mM)– induced spastic contraction and calcium antagonistic response in calcium dose–response curves. The functional enrichment of WGCNA and DEG asthma–associated pathogenic genes showed cytokine–mediated pathways and inflammatory responses. Furthermore, CACNA1A, IL2RB, and NOS2 were identified as key genes with greater binding affinity with rutin, quercitrin, and kaempferol in molecular docking. These results show that the bronchodilator and antidiarrheal effects of C. melo were produced by altering the regulatory genes of calcium–mediated smooth muscle contraction.
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HYDROPONICS SYSTEM AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO SOIL FARMING OF WATERMELON IN NIGERIA
Article
Full-text available
  • Jan 2021
Watermelon is an important vegetable consumed worldwide. It is mostly grown in a sandy loam soil with a pH value ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. However, due to the constraints in land accessibility coupled to the farmers-herders clashes for limited land resources in Nigeria, it is important to shift the focus from land extensification to intensification farming. This study therefore compares the potential of hydroponics system of cultivating watermelon relative to conventional soil farming system. Three varieties of water melon (Diamond black, Crimson sweet and Travelers watermelon varieties) were planted in 2 substrate conditions (soil and cocopeat) 4 kg each. It was a 3x2 factorial experiment arranged in a completely randomized https://www.acseusa.org/journal/index.php/aijas American International Journal of Agricultural Studies Vol. 5, No. 1; 2021 17 design with 3 replicates. Data were collected on the agronomic and yield parameters, and analysed using ANOVA, and means were separated using LSD at 5% level of significance. Results obtained showed varied agronomic performances among the genotypes, while the Crimson sweet watermelon produced significantly heavier fruit size (5.38±0.34) compared to the rest genotype. However, the highest number of fruits (2.33±0.22) was obtained in the soil, but the substrate type was insignificant in the average fruit weight. Hence, the hydroponics system is recommended as a complementary alternative to soil farming.
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Stability of fruit quality traits in diverse watermelon cultivars tested in multiple environments
Article
Full-text available
  • Dec 2016
Lycopene is a naturally occurring red carotenoid compound that is found in watermelon. Lycopene has antioxidant properties. Lycopene content, sugar content and hollowheart resistance are subject to significant genotype×environment interaction (G×E), which makes breeding for these fruit quality traits difficult. The objectives of this study were to (i) evaluate the influence of years and locations on lycopene content, sugar content and hollowheart resistance for a set of watermelon genotypes, and (ii) identify genotypes with high stability for lycopene, sugar, and hollowheart resistance. A diverse set of 40 genotypes was tested over 3 years and 8 locations across the southern United States in replicated, multi-harvest trials. Lycopene was tested in a subset of 10 genotypes. Data were analyzed using univariate and multivariate stability statistics (BLUP-GGE biplot) using SASGxE and RGxE programs. There were strong effects of environment as well as G×E interaction on watermelon quality traits. On the basis of stability measures, genotypes were classified as stable or unstable for each quality trait. 'Crimson Sweet' is an inbred line with high quality trait performance as well as trait stability. 'Stone Mountain', 'Tom Watson', 'Crimson Sweet' and 'Minilee' were among the best genotypes for lycopene content, sugar content and hollowheart resistance. We developed a stability chart based on marketable yield and average ranking generated from different stability measures for yield attributes and quality traits. The chart will assist in choosing parents for improvement of watermelon cultivars. See http://cuke.hort.ncsu.edu/cucurbit/wmelon/wmelonmain.html.
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Value of Locations for Representing Mega-Environments and for Discriminating Yield of Watermelon in the U.S.
Article
Full-text available
  • May 2016
Full paper is located at: http://cuke.hort.ncsu.edu/cucurbit/wehner/articles/art170.pdf In a crop breeding program, multiple-location trials can be used to define target regions and mega-environments that, in turn, will help the breeder develop stable cultivars. In addition, locations can be chosen that are efficient for distinguishing among cultivars (genotypes) and that are good representatives of the target regions. The objectives of this study were to study mega-environments and identify test locations that were both discriminating and representative of target regions. Watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai] fruit yield and yield components were evaluated in 3 yr and eight locations using replicated, multiple- harvest trials. Data were analyzed using genotype main effect and genotype x environment interaction (GGE) biplot model as well as other methods for stability analysis. Marketable yield and percentage early fruit had a nonrepeatable crossover pattern and thus, formed a single and complex mega-environment. Two key locations, (Kinston, NC, and Charleston, SC) were efficient representatives of two mega-environments for fruit count. Locations at Woodland, CA, and Col- lege Station, TX, can be used interchangeably for identifying genotypes with high percentage cull fruit. There was only one mega-environment for fruit size. Identification of mega-environ - ments for watermelon in the southern United States has implications for future breeding and genotype evaluation in the United States including the use of specialized genotypes for high performance in specific locations.
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Genotype × Environment Interaction and Stability Analysis for Watermelon Fruit Yield in the United States
Article
Full-text available
  • Apr 2016
Full article is located at: http://cuke.hort.ncsu.edu/cucurbit/wehner/articles/art169.pdf One of the major breeding objectives for watermelon is improved fruit yield. High yielding genotypes have been identified, so we measured their stability for fruit yield and yield components over diverse environments. The objectives of this study were to (i) evaluate the yield of watermelon genotypes over years and locations, (ii) identify genotypes with high stability for yield, and (iii) measure the correlations among univariate and multivariate stability statistics. A diverse set of 40 genotypes was evaluated over 3 years (2009, 2010, and 2011) and 8 locations across the southern United States in replicated trials. Yield traits were evaluated over multiple harvests, and measured as marketable yield, fruit count, % cull fruit, % early fruit, and fruit size. There were strong effects of environment as well as genotype x environment interaction (GxE) on watermelon yield traits. Based on multiple stability measures, genotypes were classified as stable or unstable for yield. There was an advantage of hybrids over inbreds for yield components in both performance and responsiveness to favorable environments. 'Big Crimson' and 'Legacy' are inbred lines with high yield and stability. A significant (P<0.001) and positive correlation was measured for Shukla's stability variance (σi2), Shukla’s squared hat (ŝi2), Wricke’s ecovalence (Wi), and deviation from regression (S2d) for all the traits evaluated in this study.
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Implications of Mating Behavior in Watermelon Breeding
Article
Full-text available
Understanding the natural mating behavior (self- or cross-pollination) in watermelon is important to the design of a suitable breeding strategy. The objective of this study was to measure the rate of self- and cross-pollination in watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai] using the dominant gene Sp (Spotted leaves and fruit) as a marker. The experiment consisted of two studies and was a split plot in a randomized complete block design with 3 years (2009 to 2011) and four locations (Clinton, Kinston, Oxford, Lewiston, NC). For the intercrossing study, whole plots were the two spacings (1.2 × 0.3 m and 1.2 × 0.6 m) with four replications in 2010. For the inbreeding study, whole plots were two equidistant spacings (3 × 3 m and 6 × 6 m) with four replications in 2009 to 2011. Cultivars Allsweet and Mickylee were subplots within each whole plot. In the inbreeding study, spacing and year had a significant effect on the rate of self-pollination, which was moderate (47% and 54%, respectively) when watermelon plants were trained in a spiral and spaced 3 × 3 m or 6 × 6 m apart. Spacing and cultivar did not have a significant effect on cross-pollination in the intercrossing study. Closely spaced watermelon plants (1.2 × 0.3 m and 1.2 × 0.6 m) had low natural outcrossing rate (31%and 35%, respectively) and was not adequate to intercross families. However, breeders should consider the amount of self-pollination in watermelon to calculate the estimates of component of genetic variances.
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Antioxidant Indices of Watermelon Juice and Lycopene Extract
Article
Full-text available
In the current project, indigenously grown promising watermelon variety (Sugar baby) was characterized for its antioxidant potential. The watermelon juice and lycopene extract were quantified by HPLC that depicted 4.53±0.05 and 6.27±0.06 mg/100mL of lycopene, respectively. Furthermore, the watermelon juice and lycopene extract showed Total Phenolic Contents (TPC), beta-carotene assay, 2,2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) as 23.63±1.09 and 97.15±5.01 mg/100g GAE, 49±3.10 and 73±3.20%, 29.11±1.91 and 57±3.22% and 21.67±1.21 and 37.60±1.12 mM FRAP/g, respectively. Consequently, the watermelon proved as a good source of antioxidant with special reference to lycopene.
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Do dietary lycopene and other carotenoids protect against prostate cancer? Int J Cancer
Article
Full-text available
  • Mar 2005
To determine whether dietary intake of lycopene and other carotenoids has an etiological association with prostate cancer, a case-control study was conducted in Hangzhou, southeast China during 2001-2002. The cases were 130 incident patients with histologically confirmed adenocarcinoma of the prostate. The controls were 274 hospital inpatients without prostate cancer or any other malignant diseases. Information on usual food consumption, including vegetables and fruits, was collected by face-to-face interviews using a structured food frequency questionnaire. The risks of prostate cancer for the intake of carotenoids and selected vegetables and fruits rich in carotenoids were assessed using multivariate logistic regression, adjusting for age, locality, education, income, body mass index, marital status, number of children, family history of prostate cancer, tea drinking, total fat and caloric intake. The prostate cancer risk declined with increasing consumption of lycopene, alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein and zeaxanthin. Intake of tomatoes, pumpkin, spinach, watermelon and citrus fruits were also inversely associated with the prostate cancer risk. The adjusted odds ratios for the highest versus the lowest quartiles of intake were 0.18 (95% CI: 0.08-0.41) for lycopene, 0.43 (95% CI: 0.21-0.85) for alpha-carotene, 0.34 (95% CI: 0.17-0.69) for beta-carotene, 0.15 (95% CI: 0.06-0.34) for beta-cryptoxanthin and 0.02 (95% CI: 0.01-0.10) for lutein and zeaxanthin. The corresponding dose-response relationships were also significant, suggesting that vegetables and fruits rich in lycopene and other carotenoids may be protective against prostate cancer.
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Determination of citrulline in watermelon rind
Article
Watermelon (Citrullus vulgaris Schrad.) is a natural and rich source of the non-essential amino acid citrulline. Citrulline is used in the nitric oxide system in humans and has potential antioxidant and vasodilatation roles. A method using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was developed to separate citrulline from glutamic acid, which co-elute when analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography. Watermelons were analyzed by GC-MS to determine the citrulline content among varieties, types, flesh colors, and tissues. Citrulline content ranged from 3.9 to 28.5 mg/g dry weight (dwt) and was similar between seeded and seedless types (16.6 and 20.3 mg/g dwt, respectively). Red flesh watermelons had slightly less citrulline than the yellow or orange flesh watermelons (7.4, 28.5 and 14.2 mg/g dwt, respectively). Rind contained more citrulline than flesh on a dry weight basis (24.7 and 16.7 mg/g dwt, respectively) but a little less on a fresh weight (fwt) basis (1.3 and 1.9 mg/g fwt, respectively). These results indicate that watermelon rind, an underutilized agricultural waste, offers a source of natural citrulline.
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Consumption of Watermelon Juice Increases Plasma Concentrations of Lycopene and β-Carotene in Humans
Article
  • May 2003
Watermelon is a rich natural source of lycopene, a carotenoid of great interest because of its antioxidant capacity and potential health benefits. Assessment of bioavailability of lycopene from foods has been limited to tomato products, in which heat processing promotes lycopene bioavailability. We examined the bioavailability of lycopene from fresh-frozen watermelon juice in a 19-wk crossover study. Healthy, nonsmoking adults (36-69 y) completed three 3-wk treatment periods, each with a controlled, weight-maintenance diet. Treatment periods were preceded by "washout" periods of 2-4 wk during which lycopene-rich foods were restricted. All 23 subjects consumed the W-20 (20.1 mg/d lycopene, 2.5 mg/d beta-carotene from watermelon juice) and C-0 treatments (controlled diet, no juice). As a third treatment, subjects consumed either the W-40 (40.2 mg/d lycopene, 5.0 mg/d beta-carotene from watermelon juice, n = 12) or T-20 treatment (18.4 mg/d lycopene, 0.6 mg/d beta-carotene from tomato juice, n = 10). After 3 wk of treatment, plasma lycopene concentrations for the W-20, W-40, T-20 and C-0 treatments were (least squares means +/- SEM) 1078 +/- 106, 1183 +/- 139, 960 +/- 117 and 272 +/- 27 nmol/L, respectively. Plasma concentrations of beta-carotene were significantly greater after W-20 (574 +/- 49 nmol/L) and W-40 (694 +/- 73 nmol/L) treatments than after the C-0 treatment (313 +/- 27 nmol/L). Plasma lycopene concentrations did not differ at wk 3 after W-20, W-40 and T-20 treatments, indicating that lycopene was bioavailable from both fresh-frozen watermelon juice and canned tomato juice, and that a dose-response effect was not apparent in plasma when the watermelon dose was doubled.
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Stability of fruit yield in watermelon genotypes tested in multiple US environments
  • Oct 2012
  • 84-88
  • M Dia
  • T C Wehner
  • R Hassell
  • D S Price
  • G E Boyhan
  • S Olson
  • S King
  • A R Davis
  • G E Tolla
  • J Bernier
  • B Juarez
  • N Sari
  • Solmaz I Aras
Dia M, Wehner TC, Hassell R, Price DS, Boyhan GE, Olson S, King S, Davis AR, Tolla GE, Bernier J, Juarez B, Sari N, Solmaz I and Aras V. (2012c) Stability of fruit yield in watermelon genotypes tested in multiple US environments. Cucurbitaceae. Proceedings of the Xth EUCARPIA Meeting on Genetics and Breeding of Cucurbitaceae, Antalya, Turkey, 15-18 October, 2012. University of Cukurova, Ziraat Fakultesi. P. 84-88.
In: watermelons, characteristics, production and marketing
  • Jan 2001
  • 27-73
  • T C Wehner
  • Shetty Nv
  • G W Elmstrom
Wehner TC, Shetty NV and Elmstrom GW. (2001). Breeding and seed production. In: watermelons, characteristics, production and marketing. D. N. Maynard (Ed.). ASHS Press, Alexandria, VA, P. 27-73.