Melon aroma greatly influences consumer preference and fruit quality. Climacteric melons produce more esters, while non-climacteric melons have more aldehydes. Understanding these genetic differences is crucial for breeding better melons. Although genes involved in volatile organic compound (VOC) biosynthesis have been identified, a comprehensive genetic map is still missing. In-depth research is needed to uncover the genetic basis of melon aroma and ripening behavior. Melon aroma greatly influences consumer preference and fruit quality. Climacteric melons produce more esters, while non-climacteric melons have more aldehydes. Understanding these genetic differences is crucial for breeding better melons. Although genes involved in volatile organic compound (VOC) biosynthesis have been identified, a comprehensive genetic map is still missing. In-depth research is needed to uncover the genetic basis of melon aroma and ripening behavior. Molecular & Computational biology Agriculture Phys.org – latest science and technology news stories