Watermelons likely originated in northeast Africa, derived from the Kordofan melon, correcting earlier beliefs linking them to the South African citron melon. Genetic research aligns with evidence that Egyptians consumed watermelons over 4,000 years ago. The current domesticated varieties of watermelon are closely related to wild forms from west and northeast Africa. The findings emphasize the necessity for enhanced disease resistance in modern watermelons, which currently suffer from vulnerabilities due to limited genetic diversity.
"Based on DNA, we found that watermelons as we know them today - with sweet, often red pulp that can be eaten raw - were genetically closest to wild forms from west Africa and northeast Africa," said Susanne S. Renner, honorary professor of biology in Arts & Sciences at Washington University.
"Today's watermelon comes from a very small genetic stock and is highly susceptible to diseases and insect pests, including various mildews, other fungi, viruses and nematodes [worms]," Renner said.
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