Genetic erosion in melon (Cucumis melo): a case study from Tunisia

This study reports on the analysis of 21 local melon cultivars (Cucumis melo L.) collected in the South of Tunisia which were compared to three modern melon cultivars widely-grown in this area. The analysis was based on the morphological characterization of fruits. Modern cultivars were significantly different from local germplasm as they were more firm and had higher sugar content. Furthermore it was found that local germplasm was more variable, as a group, compared to the modern cultivars which replace them steadily. This study clearly shows the need to safeguard and manage this precious local germplasm both ex situ and in situ, as this material may contain valuable genes for future breeding activities and also future cultivation practices. It can also be extrapolated from this study that genetic erosion in melon will surely take place in the future if no adequate measures are taken.Cucurbitaceae 2008. IX EUCARPIA Meeting. Avignon (France), May 21-24th, 200