MORPHOLOGICAL DIVERSITY AND DUS-BASED CHARACTERIZATION OF UNDERUTILIZED CHALANA (CITRULLUS SPP.) GERMPLASM FROM EASTERN INDIA

Abstract

Chalana (Citrullus spp.), a white-fleshed vegetable watermelon, holds regional importance in eastern India, especially Odisha and West Bengal but remains underutilized in breeding efforts. This study aimed to collect, characterize, and evaluate morphological diversity in locally cultivated Chalana genotypes using Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability (DUS) descriptors for varietal identification and improvement. Twenty-five genotypes from traditional growing areas were assessed in a randomized complete block design with three replications for key vegetative, floral and fruit traits. Considerable phenotypic variation was observed, notably in fruit stripe pattern, veining and shape. The Shannon-Weaver diversity index (H’) ranged from 0 to 1.22, with a mean of 0.50, suggesting moderate to high diversity. Traits like leaf colour (0.69), petiole length (1.02), ovary dimensions (0.63), and fruit stripe characteristics (up to 1.22) showed the most variability, making them useful for selection. The study emphasizes the potential of fruit morphological traits in distinguishing genotypes and highlights the need to conserve and utilize regional germplasm for Chalana improvement.