ARS | Publication request: Wild Germplasm: Plant Resistance for Watermelon

Submitted to: Bemisia International Workshop Proceedings
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: October 3, 2006
Publication Date: December 1, 2006
Citation: Simmons, A.M., Levi, A., Davis, A.R., Ling, K., Lopez, R., Jackson, D.M., Kousik, C.S., Shepard, B.M., Thies, J.A. 2006. Wild Germplasm: Plant Resistance for Watermelon. Bemisia International Workshop Proceedings, Duck Key, FL. pp 130.

Technical Abstract: Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus var. lanatus) is an important worldwide horticultural crop. In the U.S., the largest production areas are Texas, Florida, California, Georgia, Indiana, and Arizona. Pests and diseases are problematic in the production of this crop. Watermelon is an excellent host for some pests including whiteflies in the Bemisia complex and spidermites. In addition to direct injury by feeding by Bemisia, there is concern about the capacity of this pest to vector diseases. Plant resistance is the most fundamental pest management tool for horticultural crops. However, as verified by the high economic losses, the current level of resistance in commercial watermelon is quite inadequate. We have been conducting research to improve the cultivated watermelon against attack by selected pests and diseases. We found germplasm from some wild Citrullus sources to have improved resistance to Bemisia and other pests, and we are working to incorporate resistance into advanced breeding lines.