Scientists have constructed a comprehensive ‘super-pangenome’ for watermelon and its wild relatives, uncovering beneficial genes lost during domestication that could improve disease resistance and fruit quality of this vital fruit crop.
Wechter Lab @ USDA-ARS
CucCAP scientists perform genome-wide association study to identify resistances to Pseudomonas leaf spot in watermelon
Citrullus amarus was screened for resistance to Pseudomonas leaf spot. Genetic markers associated with resistance to P. syringae and other diseases were identified. The results will facilitate breeding for resistance to PLS in watermelon.
Melon Team | 2023 Progress Report
Watermelon Team | 2023 Progress Report
CucCAP Melon Team | Research Publications
The CucCAP Melon breeding, genomics, and pathology group published 11 journal articles and book chapters between September 2020 and April 2023.
PAG 30
CucCAP scientists genetically map novel sources of resistance to cucurbit downy mildew in watermelon
Watermelon crops are increasingly threatened by infection by cucurbit downy mildew. While there are limited sources of disease resistance within cultivated watermelon, Citrullus amarus can be a valuable source of resistances. CucCAP scientists performed disease resistance screening and whole genome resequencing of 122 C. amarus accessions. Genome wide association analysis of these materials identified several marker-trait associations and candidate genes, providing potential resources for genomics-assisted breeding for resistance to CDM in watermelon.
CucCAP scientists map QTL for resistance to powdery mildew in melon
Powdery mildew is one of the most important diseases of melon. CucCAP researchers used a densely genotyped melon population to identify QTL associated with resistance in multiple plant tissues.
