Genetic Variability, Trait Correlation, and Path Analysis in Snake Melon Cucumis melo var. flexuosus (L.) Naudin

Abstract

This study investigated the genetic variability, correlation, and path analysis of key morphological and agronomic traits in snake melon (Cucumis melo var. flexuosus) to identify optimal traits for breeding programs. Seven Sudanese landrace genotypes were evaluated in a completely randomized block design with three replications. Traits such as plant height, fruit weight, fruit dimensions (length, diameter, length-to-diameter ratio), and yield-related parameters were analysed. Results revealed high genotypic and phenotypic variability for fruit weight (GCV = 45.63%, PCV = 47.95%) and number of fruits per plant (GCV = 32.63%, PCV = 34.60%), with high broad-sense heritability (H²b =0.89) and genetic advance (GA=63.40%), indicating strong potential for selective improvement. In contrast, the lengthto- diameter ratio exhibited low variability (GCV = 3.85%, PCV = 5.72%) and heritability (H²b = 0.46), suggesting limited genetic control. Correlation analysis showed strong positive associations between fruit weight and traits like fruit diameter (0.947), fruit length (0.907), and stem length (0.915), implying pleiotropic or linked genetic regulation. Path analysis identified fruit diameter (direct effect = 6.491) and stem length (4.003) as primary contributors to fruit number, while fruit weight and length had compensatory indirect effects. The study underscores fruit weight, diameter, and stem length as priority traits for yield enhancement, while highlighting the need to explore additional physiological or molecular traits to account for residual variation. These findings provide a robust framework for targeted breeding strategies to improve snake melon productivity and adaptability.