Decoded the watermelon genome

Scientists have recently sequenced the genome of a watermelon fruit. Watermelon with the scientific name Citrullus lanatus, thought to have originated in Africa, was planted by Egyptians about 4,000 years ago.

Discovering the gene sequence of this fruit will help accelerate the breeding process and create nutritious, delicious watermelons that are more resistant to pests.

The researchers found that a large part of the disease resistance genes were lost during the process of 'domesticated' watermelons. Scientists hope that by announcing the watermelon gene sequence, they will restore the natural defenses of the disease.

The genome of pure watermelon contains 23,440 genes, roughly the same amount of human genes. The group compared the genomes of 20 different watermelons and developed genetic variation maps. This information allows them to identify areas of the genome selected by humans, including those associated with color, taste and size.

Watermelon is an important crop and one of the five most consumed fresh fruits, however, watermelon grown with a narrow genetic background makes it difficult to propagate this fruit. Decoding the entire watermelon genome will facilitate research and cultivation of this plant.

There are currently more than 400 watermelon varieties being commercially produced globally. Of the more than 40 countries participating in the watermelon industry, China is the leading country and the US ranks fourth. Although watermelon is more than 90% water, this fruit also contains a lot of vitamin A and vitamin C as well as its red lycopene compound, which can reduce the risk of some cancers.