Screening snake melon inbred lines under simulated drought

Abstract

ABSTRACT To contend with water shortages there is a need to screen snake melon germplasm such as snake melon (Cucumis melo var. flexuosus L.) to identify potential drought tolerant genetic resources. Finding plants that endure water shortage is an issue in agriculture. Inbred lines of snake melon were exposed to simulated drought at 100%, 80%, 60%, or 40% available water (AW). Yield, fruit weight, leaf area, shoot number, and total protein were highest under 100% AW. Root length, glycine betaine, and antioxidant enzyme activities increased as simulated drought increased. Inbred line 10 had an acceptable yield and greatest fruit weight, leaf number, and relative water content than other inbred lines at 40% AW. Based on principal component analysis and biplot performance, inbred lines 1 and 10 may be used in drought prone areas and may be used to develop improved lines.