Cucumber Varieties Research Articles

Spectral Study of Some Metabolites Involved in the Adaptation Reaction of Bitter Cucumber (Momordica charantia) to Saline Stress

Momordica charantia (bitter cucumber) is a tropical and subtropical plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine. Salinity is a major problem that limits plant growth and biomass production. The aim of this work was to determine the salinity tolerance of bitter cucumber, through the spectral analyses of some metabolites involved in their response to abiotic stress factors. To carry out the experiment, two varieties of bitter cucumber and three experimental lines were subjected to saline stress by applying treatments with saline solutions in different concentrations (control—0 mM NaCl; V1—100 mM NaCl; and V2—200 mM NaCl). After applying the treatments, analyses were carried out on the amount of free proline (Pro), ascorbic acid, and aromatic amino acids. For proline and ascorbic acid, the tendency was for their concentration to decrease in the variants treated with saline solutions" with "the tendency was for their absorbance to decrease in the variants treated with saline solutions. The differences between the controls and the treated variants, as well as between the studied genotypes, highlight their capacity for resistance and adaptation to saline stress.

Effect of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens QST713 on Inter-Root Substrate Environment of Cucumber under Low-Calcium Stress

(1) Background: Low-calcium stress can have adverse effects on the rhizosphere environment of cucumber, subsequently impacting cucumber growth. However, plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria can directly or indirectly enhance plant growth and induce plant tolerance, thereby mitigating the detrimental effects of low-calcium stress on cucumber growth. This study aims to elucidate the role of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens QST713 in the rhizosphere environment of cucumber under low-calcium stress, providing a theoretical basis for the application and promotion of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. (2) Methods: This study used the ‘JinYou NO.4′ cucumber variety as test material, setting four treatments of CK, CK+Q, LCa, LCa+Q. We conducted measurements of plant height and stem diameter for four groups of cucumber plants: before treatment (0 d), and at 10 d, 20 d, 30 d, and 60 d after treatment. Additionally, we determined the biomass of cucumber plants under different treatments during the peak fruiting period. Inter-root matrix samples of cucumber were collected during the fruiting late period, and the physical and chemical properties and nutrient contents of the inter-root matrix of cucumber were determined, and bacterial microbial diversity and bacterial microbial communities were analysed using Illumina-MiSeq high-throughput sequencing technology. (3) Results: Low-calcium stress significantly inhibits the growth of cucumber plants. However, the application of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens QST713 effectively mitigates the inhibitory effects of low-calcium stress on cucumber growth. The application of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens QST713 was able to improve the physicochemical environment of the matrix and enhanced the absorption and utilisation of matrix nutrients in cucumber. The high-throughput sequencing analysis showed that the richness and diversity of bacterial communities and the number of bacteria decreased significantly under low-calcium stress, and increased significantly after the application of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens QST713. The composition of the dominant bacterial groups of the inter-root matrix of cucumber was basically the same among the four treatments, and the main difference was in the abundance of bacteria. The application of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens QST713 increased the relative abundance of bacteria that decreased under low-calcium stress, and decreased the relative abundance of bacteria that increased under low-calcium stress. (4) Conclusions: The results of this study elucidated the positive effects of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens QST713 on the growth and inter-root environment of cucumber under low-calcium stress, and provided a theoretical basis for in-depth research on the resistance of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and its popularised application.

The role of LED supplementary lighting in promoting graft necrotic layer formation in pumpkin-cucumber grafts

The rapid formation of the graft necrotic layer is crucial for preventing organic substance leakage and warding off external infections, significantly enhancing both the speed and quality of graft healing. This study investigates the impact of LED supplementary lighting on pumpkin-cucumber grafts, unveiling the molecular processes underlying necrotic layer formation. Specifically, three replications were conducted, where post-grafting cucumber seedlings were placed separately in healing chambers with LED light intensities of 0 μmol/(m2·s) and 50 ± 1 μmol/(m2·s) for three days. Anatomical observations, enzyme activity assays, energy product content detection, and a more comprehensive transcriptome sequencing analysis on the graft union of the rootstock and scion were conducted. Anatomical observations revealed that LED supplementary lighting accelerates the formation of the pumpkin-cucumber graft necrotic layer, establishing a complete layer by the second day post-grafting, one day earlier than the control. Additionally, at day 3 post-grafting, the activities of POD and PPO enzymes at the rootstock-scion junction significantly surpassed the control, exhibiting a remarkable increase of 74.12 % and 48.96 %, respectively (p < 0.01). Moreover, soluble sugar and ATP levels were notably higher at day 3 post-grafting in comparison to the control, showing significant differences (p < 0.05). Transcriptomic analysis unveiled that LED supplementary lighting not only enhances scion sugar metabolism but also stimulates the upregulation of sugar synthesis genes (SPP1, RPV1) and starch synthesis genes (AGPS1, WAXY, SBEⅡ), while downregulating the starch degradation gene LECRK71 when compared to the control. This orchestrated modulation leads to the accumulation of sugars and starch, providing substantial energy and material foundation for necrotic layer formation. Furthermore, LED supplementation also influences the hormone signaling transduction pathway in the scion, notably upregulating the gene Os01g0656200 involved in abscisic acid signaling when compared to the control, thereby furthering the formation of the necrotic layer. Overall, our research showed that LED supplementary lighting accelerates the formation of the necrotic layer in pumpkin-cucumber grafts by enhancing enzyme activities, sugar metabolism, genetic pathways related to starch accumulation, and influencing hormone signal transduction pathways, notably upregulating genes involved in abscisic acid signaling, providing a robust molecular foundation for early necrotic layer development compared to control conditions. These research findings not only provide a valuable reference for understanding graft healing mechanisms but also demonstrate the promising prospects of LED modern seedling technology. Additionally, the research, which is limited to specific pumpkin and cucumber varieties in graft experiments, necessitates further exploration to validate its broader applicability across diverse plant varieties and grafting methods.

Investigating the Performance of Different Varieties of Cucumber under Prayagraj Agro-Climatic Condition

Nine cucumber varieties were evaluated at the vegetable research farm Department of Horticulture SHUATS, Prayagraj in randomized block design with three replications during rainy seson September -2022 for growth, yield and fruit qualities. The experimental design was Randomized Block Design consisting of nine treatment with three replications, with a view to evaluate different cultivars of cucumber viz. KH10 GREEN LONG(T1), F999(T2), C4F9(T3), SS95(T4), CUCUMBER GREEN WONDER(T5), BH05(T6), PRIYA BARSATI(T7), ANUPRIYA(T8), GREEN 4 BARSATI(T9). Cucumber Green Wonder gave maximum mean value for fruits per plant (5.20 kg) , fruit weight (174.33 g), fruit yield per plot (39.33 kg), number of node per vine (15.33) yield (42 q) , number of male flower per plant (65.00) , number at which first female flower (5.33) was observed in same varieties , maximum numbers of male flowers per plant in variety Cucumber Green Wonder (65.00) maximum length has been found in Cucumber Green Wonder (151.67) Minimum days were recorded for first Appearance of male flower in KH 10 Green Long (51.67). The variety Green 4 Barsati has taken minimum (48.00) days to first harvesting followed by F999 (53.00). cucumber green wonder was found superior based on overall performance in terms of growth, yield, quality &amp; Economic returns. The highest cost benefit ratio was found for cucumber variety Cucumber Green Wonder under PrayagrajAgroclimate condition.

Biological Components in Cucumbers (Cucumis Sativus L.): Implications for Pickle Manufacturing and Health Benefits in Fresh and Processed Varieties

This comprehensive review delves into the botanical intricacies of Cucumis sativus L., commonly known as cucumbers, and their pivotal role in pickle production within the realm of food science. The investigation systematically scrutinizes the health benefits associated with both unprocessed and processed cucumber varieties, shedding light on the intrinsic bioactive elements present in cucumbers and their potential contributions to human well-being. Emphasizing a meticulous exploration of the molecular interplay, the review unveils the complex mechanisms that underlie the purported health advantages of cucumbers. Phytochemical constituents, such as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, are scrutinized for their potential implications in promoting wellness. By synthesizing scientific literature and empirical evidence, the review not only serves as a valuable resource for researchers but also extends practical insights for professionals in nutrition and food science. The bridging of theoretical understanding with practical applications distinguishes this review, offering a nuanced perspective on the molecular facets of cucumber compounds. Its implications extend beyond academic discourse, influencing considerations in food processing strategies and dietary recommendations. In essence, this review seeks to unravel the scientific intricacies of cucumber bioactive elements, providing a substantive foundation for comprehending their potential health benefits, especially in the context of pickled cucumber consumption.

Hydroponic Trough Systems for Maximising Cucumber Production

Abstract: Hydroponics is a promising solution to address the increasing demand for food caused by limited arable land and a growing global population. This article focuses on the use of hydroponics in cucumber cultivation, specifically highlighting the adaptability of hydroponic trough system. It explains the design elements of the trough system in detail, including configuration, growing medium, nutrient solution, and support structures. The article emphasises the advantages of hydroponic trough systems in cucumber cultivation, such as precise nutrient dispensation, space efficiency, water conservation, and potential for automation. It discusses strategies for optimal cucumber production within these systems, including temperature control, pollination techniques, pruning, and pH monitoring. The article also addresses the challenges of insect and pest attacks, introducing common pests and presenting integrated pest management strategies for effective control. It explores diseases that can affect cucumber crops in hydroponic systems, such as powdery mildew, downy mildew, Pythium root rot, and Fusarium wilt. It discusses strategies to prevent these diseases, including preventive measures, disease-resistant cucumber varieties, cultural practices, and bio methods. By considering all these aspects, a comprehensive approach to disease management can be established. Overall, adopting hydroponic trough systems in cucumber cultivation offers a sustainable and efficient solution to traditional farming challenges. By incorporating preventive measures, disease-resistant cultivars, and organic remedies, farmers can ensure a thriving cucumber harvest and contribute to a productive and sustainable agricultural future.

Влияние вермикомпостов на агрохимический состав почвосмеси и плодоношение огурца в условиях Центральной Якутии

The purpose of the experiment was to study effect of the vermicomposts on agro- chemical composition of soil mixture and cucumber fruiting in the conditions of Central Yakutia. To study the effectiveness of vermicomposts, the zoned cucumber variety Aprelsky was used. In total, the experiment included 10 options (3 replicates of 10 plants each): option 1 – control; options 2, 3, 4, 5 – respectively 50; 100; 150 and 200 g per plant of vermicompost from cattle manure; options 6, 7 – respectively 100 and 200 g per plant of vermicompost from bird droppings; option 8 – 100 g per plant of humus and 100 ml Baikal EM-1; option 9 – 100 ml Baikal EM-1; option 10 – liquid vermicompost (vermicai). As a result, it has been found that with increasing doses of vermifertilizers, the mineral composition and total nitrogen content correspondingly in- crease. The greatest significance for the accumulation of cucumber fruits was in option 4, where this indicator was higher than the control variant by 58.33%. The second best results were found in option 10, where this indicator was higher than in the control variant by 54.17%. Then option 9 was marked, where the studied indicator was 50.0% higher than the control one. Thus, research shows that the use of vermifertilizers contributes to better fruiting of cucumbers in the conditions of Central Yakutia.

Assessment of growth characteristics and yield of different cucumber cultivars

A field experiment was carried out to determine the performance of different cucumber varieties. The research was carried out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with 4 treatments and 6 replications. The varieties used are Bhaktapur local, Kamini, Ragini, and Ranjha. Data were collected on the following parameters such as stem length, plant height, number of leaves, number of branches, number of male flowers, number of female flowers, days to first flowering, male to female flower ratio, days to first male flowering, days to first female flowering, fruit weight, fruit length, number of fruits per plant and yield. It is found that among the performance of different varieties, Kamini was the best high yielding variety for this locality with a yield of 58.93 ton ha-1 followed by Ranjha. Kamini exhibited a greater count of female flowers and fruits. In comparison, Bhaktapur local outperformed other varieties in various aspects such as plant height (193.37 cm), number of leaves (42.39), number of branches (7.13), and male to female ratio (2.63).

THE INFLUENCE OF CLASSICAL MUSIC ON THE GROWTH OF SOME VARIETIES OF CUCUMBERS AND TOMATOES GROWN IN GREENHOUSES

Greenhouse farms in Armenia are developing intensively from year to year. The growth and development of plants grown in greenhouses is mainly stimulated by chemicals, however, they can be partially replaced by the influence of music. Scientists have proven the beneficial effect of music on the growth of higher plants back in the last century. We conducted experiments on local plant varieties purchased at the “Scientific Center for Vegetables, Melons and Industrial Crops” in the village of Darakert. During the day, with breaks, music was turned on for 6.5 hours. The influence of classical music on various phases of growth and development of greenhouse plants of local varieties of cucumbers “Hayarpi”, “Nare” and tomatoes “Rubina”, “Ranni-Nush” was tested. Comparisons are provided with plants of the same varieties grown without music. As a result of the research, it was revealed that classical music, in which sound waves oscillate in the range of 6 kHz, has a stimulating effect on the growth of the studied varieties of cucumbers and tomatoes and their growth exceeds the growth of plants grown without the influence of music.

Pan-Genome Analysis of TIFY Gene Family and Functional Analysis of CsTIFY Genes in Cucumber.

Cucumbers are frequently affected by gray mold pathogen Botrytis cinerea, a pathogen that causes inhibited growth and reduced yield. Jasmonic acid (JA) plays a primary role in plant responses to biotic stresses, and the jasmonate-ZIM-Domain (JAZ) proteins are key regulators of the JA signaling pathway. In this study, we used the pan-genome of twelve cucumber varieties to identify cucumber TIFY genes. Our findings revealed that two CsTIFY genes were present in all twelve cucumber varieties and showed no differences in protein sequence, gene structure, and motif composition. This suggests their evolutionary conservation across different cucumber varieties and implies that they may play a crucial role in cucumber growth. On the other hand, the other fourteen CsTIFY genes exhibited variations in protein sequence and gene structure or conserved motifs, which could be the result of divergent evolution, as these genes adapt to different cultivation and environmental conditions. Analysis of the expression profiles of the CsTIFY genes showed differential regulation by B. cinerea. Transient transfection plants overexpressing CsJAZ2, CsJAZ6, or CsZML2 were found to be more susceptible to B. cinerea infection compared to control plants. Furthermore, these plants infected by the pathogen showed lower levels of the enzymatic activities of POD, SOD and CAT. Importantly, after B. cinerea infection, the content of JA was upregulated in the plants, and cucumber cotyledons pretreated with exogenous MeJA displayed increased resistance to B. cinerea infection compared to those pretreated with water. Therefore, this study explored key TIFY genes in the regulation of cucumber growth and adaptability to different cultivation environments based on bioinformatics analysis and demonstrated that CsJAZs negatively regulate cucumber disease resistance to gray mold via multiple signaling pathways.

Pan-genome Analysis of WOX Gene Family and Function Exploration of CsWOX9 in Cucumber.

Cucumber is an economically important vegetable crop, and the warts (composed of spines and Tubercules) of cucumber fruit are an important quality trait that influences its commercial value. WOX transcription factors are known to have pivotal roles in regulating various aspects of plant growth and development, but their studies in cucumber are limited. Here, genome-wide identification of cucumber WOX genes was performed using the pan-genome analysis of 12 cucumber varieties. Our findings revealed diverse CsWOX genes in different cucumber varieties, with variations observed in protein sequences and lengths, gene structure, and conserved protein domains, possibly resulting from the divergent evolution of CsWOX genes as they adapt to diverse cultivation and environmental conditions. Expression profiles of the CsWOX genes demonstrated that CsWOX9 was significantly expressed in unexpanded ovaries, especially in the epidermis. Additionally, analysis of the CsWOX9 promoter revealed two binding sites for the C2H2 zinc finger protein. We successfully executed a yeast one-hybrid assay (Y1H) and a dual-luciferase (LUC) transaction assay to demonstrate that CsWOX9 can be transcriptionally activated by the C2H2 zinc finger protein Tu, which is crucial for fruit Tubercule formation in cucumber. Overall, our results indicated that CsWOX9 is a key component of the molecular network that regulates wart formation in cucumber fruits, and provide further insight into the function of CsWOX genes in cucumber.

The Role of the Relative Humidity on the Development of Downy Mildew Infection of Cucumber in the Greenhouse in Baghdad

This study conducted at the Dujail, north of Baghdad, aims to control the downy mildew disease of cucumber based on the ventilation of greenhouses by making three ventilation holes in the plastic cover, in comparison to cultivation into a regular greenhouse (without ventilation holes). Three approved cucumber hybrid were included in this study; Mustaqbal, Jamilah, and Faris. The infection percentage and disease severity rates were calculated since the onset of the disease on March 21st, 2022 until May 18th, 2022. The results showed that the average temperatures (minimum and maximum) and relative humidity were 5-25 ºC and 97% inside the regular greenhouse were suitable for the Pseudoperonospora cubensis natural infection. The highest percentage of infection and disease severity were 30.81 and 23.33%, respectively, reported into the regular greenhouse (without ventilation), compared with the infection percentage and disease severity in the ventilated greenhouses, which were 1.28 and 6.99%, respectively. The percentages of infection of Mustaqbal, Faris and Jamila in the regular greenhouse (without ventilation) were 31.69, 31.40 and 29.35%, respectively, compared to 1.47, 1.17 and 1.21% noticed in the greenhouses with three ventilation holes for the same cucumber varieties, respectively. This study found that three ventilation holes in plastic cover of the greenhouse reduced the percentage infection and disease severity in cucumber plants, by 95.8 and 70% respectively.

The Presence of Whitefly Bemisia tabaci, and Thrips Thrips tabaci on Different Cucumber Plant Hybrid Varieties in the Field Conditions

The study was conducted to determine the susceptibility of different cucumber hybrid varieties (Jumbo Green, Ghazeer, Nefer, and Sahem) to sucking insect pests, onion thrips Thrips tabaci Lind., and tobacco whitefly Bemisia tabaci Genn., during the summer of 2018 season in the experimental fields of College of Agriculture, University of Baghdad, Iraq. The results showed that the infestation of cucumber varieties with sucking pests onion thrips T. tabaci and tobacco whitefly B. tabaci occurred on all varieties during the entire month of July. Nefer and Sahem varieties were more susceptible to high infestation by the whitefly adult, where the average was 5.21 and 5.05 adults per leaf, respectively, compared with the Ghazeer and Jumbo Green varieties, where the average was 4.06 and 4.02 adults per leaf, respectively. At the same time, the nymph average of whitefly was 55.80 and 55.20 nymphs per leaf on Ghazeer and Jumbo Green, respectively, followed by Sahem and Nefer varieties, which were 47.80 and 38.10, respectively. The average of thrips nymphs was recorded on all varieties, which were 4.52, 3.57, 3.06, and 2.96 nymphs per leaf on Sahem, Nefer, Ghazeer, and Jumbo Green, respectively. During July and early August, the green lacewing Chrysoperla sp., parasitoids Ahidius sp., and coccinellids like ladybird Coccinella sp. were found to be linked with whitefly and thrips pests on all varieties.

Response of Cucumber (Cucumis Sativus L.) Varieties as Influenced by Sole Application of NPK (15:15:15) and Poultry Manure on the Growth and Yield in Zuru Area of Kebbi State

Field experiments have been carried out at Teaching and Research Farm of the Federal University of Agriculture Zuru (lat. 12012.99' N; long. 40 21.90'E; 197m above sea level), at some point of 2020/21 and 2021/22 rainy seasons withinside of the Northern Guinea Savannah area of Nigeria. The region has a protracted dry season this is characterized via way of means of cool dry air (harmattan) that prevails from November to February; and warm dry air extending from March to May. The place has been used for cultivation of vegetable and cereal crops. The purpose of the test turned into to look at the reaction of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) varieties to poultry manure and NPK (15:15:15). Treatments consisted of three (3) cucumber varieties (Darina, Market-more and Poinsett-75) and two (2) nutrient sources (NPK [15:15:15], poultry manure and the untreated control; each designed to deliver the endorsed nitrogen dose of 120kg N ha-1. Treatments have been specified in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Results found out that vine length, crop growth rate, imply fruit length, imply fruit diameter, total number of fruits per plant and fresh fruit yield of Market-more and Point sett varieties have been better with the application of either poultry manure or NPK fertilizer. Result, similarly discovered that all the three varieties (Darina, Market-more and Pointsett-75) attained maximum growth

Natural variation in STAYGREEN contributes to low-temperature tolerance in cucumber.

Low-temperature (LT) stress threatens cucumber production globally; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying LT tolerance in cucumber remain largely unknown. Here, using a genome-wide association study (GWAS), we found a naturally occurring single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the STAYGREEN (CsSGR) coding region at the gLTT5.1 locus associated with LT tolerance. Knockout mutants of CsSGR generated by clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated nuclease 9 exhibit enhanced LT tolerance, in particularly, increased chlorophyll (Chl) content and reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in response to LT. Moreover, the C-repeat Binding Factor 1 (CsCBF1) transcription factor can directly activate the expression of CsSGR. We demonstrate that the LT-sensitive haplotype CsSGRHapA , but not the LT-tolerant haplotype CsSGRHapG could interact with NON-YELLOW COLORING 1 (CsNYC1) to mediate Chl degradation. Geographic distribution of the CsSGR haplotypes indicated that the CsSGRHapG was selected in cucumber accessions from high latitudes, potentially contributing to LT tolerance during cucumber cold-adaptation in these regions. CsSGR mutants also showed enhanced tolerance to salinity, water deficit, and Pseudoperonospora cubensis, thus CsSGR is an elite target gene for breeding cucumber varieties with broad-spectrum stress tolerance. Collectively, our findings provide new insights into LT tolerance and will ultimately facilitate cucumber molecular breeding.

Influence of Environmental Factors, Growing Conditions and Seasonal Variations on Vegetative, Yield and Quality Characters of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Varieties

Influence of Environmental Factors, Growing Conditions and Seasonal Variations on Vegetative, Yield and Quality Characters of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Varieties

Respon Pemberian Pupuk Petroganik Terhadap Pertumbuhan Dan Produksi Beberapa Varietas Tanaman Mentimun (Cucumis sativus l.) Di Desa Besar II Terjun Serdang Bedagai

In this research, we wanted to see the response of applying petroganic fertilizer to the growth and production of several varieties of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) in Besar II village, Terjun Serdang Bedagai. The study was conducted by a factorial Randomized Block Design (RBD), with two factors namely: Petroganic Fertilizer Factor (P) with 4 levels, namely: P0= 0 kg/plot (Control), P1= 0.5 tons/ha (50 gram/plot), P2= 1 ton/ha (100 gram/plot) (recommended dose), P3= 1.5 ton/ha (150 gram/plot), Cucumber Variety Factor (V) with 2 levels, namely V1= Harmoni Plus, V2= Monas F1. The growth of cucumber plants due to petroganic fertilizers showed a significant effect on plant height, stem diameter at plant ages 15, 30 and 45 days after planting, fruit length at 45 and 50 days after planting, fruit weight at 40, 45 and 50 days after planting. Petroganic fertilizer had no significant effect on fruit length 40 days after planting. The best petroganic fertilizer treatment is P3 which is 150 gram/plot. The growth of cucumber plants due to the variety treatment showed no significant effect on all parameters, namely plant height and stem diameter at the age of 15, 30 and 45 days after planting and fruit length and fruit weight at 40, 45 and 50 days after planting. The best variety treatment was V2, namely the Monas F1 variety. The interaction between the petroganic fertilizer treatment and the variety treatment had no significant effect on all observed parameters.

Characterization of caffeoyl shikimate esterase gene family identifies CsCSE5 as a positive regulator of Podosphaera xanthii and Corynespora cassiicola pathogen resistance in cucumber.

CsCSE genes might be involved in the tolerance of cucumber to pathogens. Silencing of the CsCSE5 gene resulted in attenuated resistance of cucumber to Podosphaera xanthii and Corynespora cassiicola. Caffeoyl shikimate esterase (CSE), a key enzyme in the lignin biosynthetic pathway, has recently been characterized to play a key role in defense against pathogenic infection in plants. However, a systematic analysis of the CSE gene family in cucumber (Cucumis sativus) has not yet been conducted. Here, we identified eight CsCSE genes from the cucumber genome via bioinformatic analyses, and these genes were unevenly distributed on chromosomes 1, 3, 4, and 5. Results from multiple sequence alignment indicated that the CsCSE proteins had domains required for CSE activity. Phylogenetic analysis of gene structure and protein motifs revealed the conservation and diversity of the CsCSE gene family. Collinearity analysis showed that CsCSE genes had high homology with CSE genes in wax gourd (Benincasa hispida). Cis-acting element analysis of the promoters suggested that CsCSE genes might play important roles in growth, development, and stress tolerance. Expression pattern analysis indicated that CsCSE5 might be involved in regulating the resistance of cucumber to pathogens. Functional verification data confirmed that CsCSE5 positively regulates the resistance of cucumber to powdery mildew pathogen Podosphaera xanthii and target leaf spot pathogen Corynespora cassiicola. The results of our study provide information that will aid the genetic improvement of resistant cucumber varieties.

Comparative Efficacy of Cypermethrin and Plant Extract in the Control of Cucumber Pests in Ado Ekiti, Southwestern Nigeria

Cucumber (Cucumis Sativus) is widely cultivated and consumed in the tropics as a source of fruit vegetable for man due to its numerous health benefits. Attainable yield in the farmers farm is considerably low due to the problem of insect pest attack. Based on the above, experiment was conducted to investigate the efficacy of cypermethrin and three plant extracts (Datura stramonium, Ricinus communis and Sida acuta) in the control of insect pest associated with cucumber. Cucumber variety Cu 999 was planted on a 2 x 2 m at a spacing of 40cm x 40cm. three concentrations of the extracts was used in the control of the pest and cypermethrin insecticide was used as a standard check. The control plot in each case was sprayed with distilled water. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and means separated using least significant different at (p ≤ 0.05). Result from the study shows statistically significant variations. Eight insect pests belonging to different families were frequently observed on the cucumber. Incidence of normal fruits were generally higher than abnormal fruits at all the tested concentrations. At 65 % concentration with extracts of D. stranmonium, incidence of normal fruit (80.3 %) was not significantly different from that of cypermethrin insecticide (82.6 %). Yield of cucumber sprayer with 65% concentration of D. stramonium (250 kg/ha) was not significantly different from that of cypermethrin insecticide (254 kg/ha). The study concluded that extracts of the three plants can replace the synthetic insecticide in the management of the insect plant of cucumber with corresponding yield.

Identification of a gene causing yellow endocarp in Cucumis sativus through high-throughput sequencing

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) is a globally valued and widely cultivated vegetable crop. However, most commercially available cucumbers contain white or green fruit flesh color, which has very low ß-carotene and other carotenoids. Conversely, orange or yellow-fleshed cucumbers are rich in carotenoids and offer significant dietary and nutritional benefits. To generate cucumber varieties with carotenoid-enriched fruit flesh, we conducted high-throughput sequencing of a yellow-fleshed cucumber PI200815 (CS-C) and white-fleshed cucumbers JEF, and KWSA, to identify the genomic region responsible for yellow-fleshed fruit. Building on the previous report by Lu et al. (2015), we identified seven unique DNA variations in five genes specific to the CS-C line using HiSeq2000 and genomic mapping to 'Chinese-Long v3′. Further, based on the Sanger gene sequencing, among the five candidate genes, we found the CsaV3_7G029170 (encodes for an ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter C family member 4 [CsaYf]) gene with a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variation in the third exon resulted in a missense mutation caused an amino acid change from Aspartic acid (Asp) to Aspargine (Asn) in the CS-C line. Accordingly, the gene segregation analysis based on the SNP variation revealed that the CsaYf gene confers the yellow endocarp trait in the CS-C line through recessive Mendelian single-gene inheritance. Notably, we observed a negative correlation between the downregulation of CsaYf gene expression and the accumulation of ß-carotene in meso and endo carp tissues in the CS-C line, suggesting a further investigation into the underlying molecular mechanism. This finding provides a novel genetic basis for breeding cucumbers with enriched carotenoid content to enhance their nutritional value.