Ancient DNA reveals South Asian origins of Song Dynasty melons

Researchers from Washington University in St. Louis have used ancient DNA analysis to uncover new details regarding the history of melons in China. By studying waterlogged seeds recovered from the ancient port of Shuomen Gugang in southeastern China, dating back to the Song Dynasty (960–1279), scientists determined that these melons likely originated from domesticated populations in South Asia rather than being developed from local wild Chinese plants.

The genetic findings suggest these ancient varieties differed significantly from modern dessert melons. The seeds lacked the genetic variants associated with orange flesh, instead showing traits compatible with green flesh and yellow skin. Researchers noted that these characteristics may have aligned with the aesthetic preferences of the Song Dynasty, such as the jade-green celadon ceramics popular at the time.

While the study confirms a connection to South Asian crops, the exact route of introduction remains a subject of investigation. Researchers are considering two potential corridors: the northern Silk Road or the southern Tea Horse Road through the Himalayan region. The presence of these seeds in southern China, which predates similar finds in northern sites, provides some evidence favoring the southern route.