Development of Melon Hybrids at The Center For Tropical Fruit Studies, Bogor Agricultural University

Abstract

In order to meet high demand on hybrid melon (Cucumis melo L.) in Indonesia, Center for Tropical Fruit Studies conducted breeding program for both of netted melon (C. melo var. reticulatus), and winter melon (C. melo var. inodorus). The objective of our breeding program is to develop and release consumer prepered melon hybrid varieties having quality fruit characters of sweet, crispy, and thick flesh, heavy weight, long shelf-life, and better after-taste. The breeding program was started since 2002, by utililized top-cross approach for development of base population. About 18 lines selected were crossed and generated 193 hybrids, and the more promising hybrids, indicated with quality characters and uniformity, were intensively bechmarked with popular leading comearcial varities. Recently the breeding program has resulting in two promising hybrids, IPB-MH7 and IPBMH52. IPB-MH7 has white-green skin and very thick, white flesh. IPB-MH52 has bright-yellow, non-netted fruit skin, green flesh, and also performed well in greenhouse. Those hybrids have been registered in Indonesia Plant Variety Protection Office in 2007.