High population growth has caused increase in demand of agricultural products. However, due to climate change, there has been a decline in agricultural production, which has been threatening national food security.

Melon (Cucumis melo L.) from the Cucurbitaceae family is considered one of Indonesia’s most important agricultural products. At the Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), a melon variety has been developed to withstand extreme weather conditions, among other features. The Melodi Gama 3 (MG 3) was developed by a team of researchers from UGM’s Faculty of Biology. The research is funded by the Indonesian Directorate General of Higher Education through the Masterplan of Acceleration and Extension of Indonesian Economic Development (MP3EI).

In his report, Dr. Budi S. Daryono, head of the research team reported that the harvest at the Agricultural Research and Development Station (KP4) showed that the cultivar can yield up to 40 tons per hectare even under extreme weather conditions.

Aside from being climate resilient, MG 3 is resistant to powdery mildew that often attacks melons. It is also tolerant to diseases caused by virus, including Kyuri green mottle mosaic virus (KGMMV). With these, farmers can save on insecticides and fungicides.

MG 3 also has its nutritional benefits; it contains beta carotene, is sweet and aromatic, and can be stored longer.

Source: UGM News Release|29 May 2013