Investigating Leaf Epidermal Traits and Their Impact on Fruit Yield of Watermelons

Rihanat Asafa, Fiyinfoluwa Olaniran, Muhammed Jimoh, Adepoju Joseph Ogunkunle, Akanbi Babatunde and Sa’adat Yusuf

Background and Objective: Investigating leaf epidermal traits and their impact on fruit yield in watermelons is an important area of agricultural research. The epidermis or outer layer of leaves, plays a critical role in photosynthesis, water regulation and overall plant health. Limited research has been conducted to explore the impact of leaf epidermal traits on the fruit yield of watermelons. Therefore, this study investigated the relationship between leaf epidermal characteristics and fruit yield of watermelon plants. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in 2018 on four varieties of watermelon (sugar baby, Kaolack, Grey belle and Collos F1) under controlled conditions. Their leaf epidermal features such as stomatal density, stomatal size, shapes and fruit yield were examined. Paradermal sections of the adaxial and abaxial were made on the 32 leaves of the four varieties of watermelon. Data collected were analyzed using ANOVA and means were compared using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at p<0.05. Results: Significant variations in leaf epidermal traits were observed among watermelon varieties. Epidermal cells were polygonal and irregular, with anticlinal cell walls varying from straight to wavy. Stomatal complexes included tetracytic, anomocytic and anisocytic types, with shapes such as round, elliptic and oval. Key measurements for the Kaolack variety included a guard cell area of 506.55 μm, stomatal density of 32.30 mm² and a stomatal index of 19.86, correlating with the highest fruit yield of 61.83 ton/ha, compared to 51.99 ton/ha for Collos F1 and 31.05 ton/ha for sugar baby. Higher stomatal density and smaller size are linked to increased yields. Conclusion: The investigation into the relationship between leaf epidermal traits and fruit yield in watermelons revealed a complex interplay of factors influencing plant performance.

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