Snake melon (Cucumis melo subsp. melo L. var. flexuosus (L.) Naudin) is an ancient and traditional crop in the Mediterranean region. Nevertheless, there has been poor interest in assessing snake melon germplasm where its genetic resources have not been surveyed before despite their potential in adaptation to environmental changes. In this study, we assess the genetic diversity of snake melon landraces collected from different Lebanese regions at both morphological and molecular levels. Morphological characterization using a set of 18 descriptors revealed an important phenotypic variability among the landraces studied. Principle component analysis indicated that fruit hair and its consistency, fruit size, and skin color pattern were good criteria for discriminating among landraces. Based on the scatter plot diagram, landraces of snake melon formed five different groups with one being defined as typical var. flexuosus. Ten simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were used for the molecular characterization. Fifty-six different alleles were detected, with an average of 5.6 alleles per locus. Polymorphism information content of SSR markers ranged from 0.06 to 0.84 (average 0.38). Cluster analysis based on molecular markers showed high genetic diversity and divided the landraces into five distinct genetic groups, confirming thereby the morphological variability. Findings of this study indicate a significant diversity for the Lebanese snake melon germplasm that must be further conserved and considered in improvement programs of this ancient crop.

Lebanon’s well-documented history in grape cultivation and winemaking dates back millennia, intertwining with its cultural heritage and landscape. However, until recent years, Lebanon’s grapevine genetic resources have received limited attention. This study presents a comprehensive exploration and characterization of Lebanese local underexploited resources, beginning with the collection of 276 accessions throughout the country, with an emphasis on old/abandoned vines and vineyards. Molecular analyses were conducted on these accessions; 22 nuclear simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers and 3 chloroplastic SSR markers were used to assess their genetic diversity. A total of 102 distinct genotypes were identified, 63 of which exhibited original genetic signatures previously undocumented in international databases, highlighting the unique genetic richness of Lebanon’s grapevine germplasm. Subsequent morphological characterization using a set of descriptors developed by International Organization of Grapevine and Wine (OIV) provided valuable insights into the phenotypic traits of these newly found grape cultivars. Parentage analysis facilitated the elucidation of genetic relationships among the accessions and the construction of genetic pedigrees. Comparative analysis with a set of cultivars of very diverse geographical origin positioned Lebanese accessions within the Eastern Mediterranean group, suggesting shared genetic affinities with regional counterparts. Lebanon’s grapevine genetic resources are key for conservation, breeding, and future viticulture research. Preserving these resources protects the nation’s heritage while fostering innovation and resilience in winemaking amid environmental changes.

ISHS VII International Symposium on Tropical and Subtropical Fruits, Avocado, II International Symposium on Jackfruit and Other Moraceae and II International Symposium on Date Palm Preliminary assessment of maturity and picking dates of avocado under Lebanese growing conditions