Fuzzy comprehensive evaluation for selecting mini watermelon cultivars

Area of Science:

• Horticulture
• Agricultural Science
• Plant Breeding

Background:

• Traditional methods for selecting mini watermelon cultivars are inadequate.
• Need for an objective and precise evaluation system for mini watermelon cultivar selection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate 11 mini watermelon cultivars using a novel two-level fuzzy comprehensive evaluation (FCE) method.
• To establish an evaluation index system based on commercial traits, early maturity, and high yield quality.

Main Methods:

• Application of a two-level fuzzy comprehensive evaluation (FCE) model.
• Development of an evaluation index system incorporating 15 specific factors across three key characteristics.
• Comparative analysis of 11 mini watermelon cultivars.

Main Results:

• Linglongwang was identified as the overall best mini watermelon cultivar among the 11 evaluated.
• Autocopulation F1 (Hai 024 x Hai 011) ranked second, while Heimeiren x Yun 05-2-1-1 performed lowest.
• Hai 051 x Hai 011 excelled in early maturity but showed deficiencies in commercial traits and yield quality compared to others.

Conclusions:

• The two-level fuzzy comprehensive evaluation (FCE) method provides objective and precise assessment of mini watermelon cultivar characteristics.
• FCE demonstrates significant potential for improving the selection process of mini watermelon cultivars.
• This advanced evaluation approach can aid breeders and growers in making informed cultivar choices.