Assessment of genetic variability for yield and fruit quality traits in F₅ melon lines derived from inter-specific hybridization

The present investigation was conducted during Rabi 2025 at the College of Horticulture, Bagalkot, Karnataka, to assess genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance among 26 F₅ melon (Cucumis melo L.) lines derived from hybridization between C. melo ssp. agrestis and C. melo ssp. melo, along with their parents and F₁ hybrid. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with two replications. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among genotypes for all traits except number of primary branches, indicating substantial genetic variability. Wide variation was observed for shelf life, individual fruit weight, fruit length, beta-carotene content and fruit yield per plant. High PCV and GCV were recorded for shelf life, individual fruit weight, fruit length, pulp thickness, total soluble solids and beta-carotene content. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was observed for fruit length, fruit diameter, pulp thickness, seed cavity diameter, individual fruit weight, shelf life, total soluble solids, beta-carotene content and ascorbic acid content, indicating the predominance of additive gene action. The results suggest that these traits can be effectively improved through phenotypic selection. The superior recombinants identified in the present study may serve as valuable genetic resources for developing high-yielding melon cultivars with improved fruit quality and extended shelf life.