Cover

Abstract

On the cover

Various types of melon are grown in the world, including variations of the Kazakhstan melon. Melon groups with large seeds (≥ 9.0 mm) and small seeds (< 9.0 mm) are indicated in green and red, respectively. The molecular phylogenetic study showed that small populations contributed to melon development in the eastern Silk Road and the genetic component of these resemble melon varieties in Kazakhstan (This issue, p. 219–229).

(K. Kato: Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University)