Morpho-agronomic characterization of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. et Nakai) in Cabezada locality, Granma province, Cuba
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Abstract
In Cuba, there are 12 commercial watermelon cultivars (Citrullus lanatus), but local germplasms have been less studied in scientific literature, a factor that accelerates their genetic erosion. The project "Introduction of New Agricultural Methods for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Biodiversity" aims to conserve this crop in the community of Cabezada, located in the Wildlife Refuge Delta del Cauto, Granma, where the local cultivar 'Patisito' had previously been identified. This research morpho-agronomically characterized the local germplasm to verify its existence. The methodology included: 1) germplasm acquisition through surveys and seed collection from four farms of the Ramón Ramos Credit and Service Cooperative (in Cabezada locality), and 2) morphological characterization using minimum descriptors for Cucurbitaceae, statistical analyses, and Pearson's correlation coefficient. The experiment was established at the "Villegas" farm (Güira de Melena, Artemisa) with staggered planting to avoid cross-pollination. Results determined that the germplasm collected does not correspond to the 'Patisito' cultivar described for local farmers, showing heterogeneity in key identification traits. However, it showed homogeneity in five characteristics: prostrate growth habit, weak leaf lobulation, absence of hermaphrodite flowers, light green rind, and pink flesh. The positive correlation between heavier fruits and longer seeds suggests a population less selected for pulp. The homogeneous pink flesh indicates high lycopene accumulation, a possible adaptation to the salinity conditions of the Delta del Cauto. These findings reveal a risk of genetic erosion and highlight the relevance of in situ conservation of this locally adapted plant genetic resource.
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