Preprints (www.preprints.org) | NOT PEER-REVIEWED | Posted: 12 January 2021 doi:10.20944/preprints202101.0213.v1 Review Citron watermelon potential to improve crop diversification and reduce negative impacts of climate change Takudzwa Mandizvo 1*, Alfred Oduor Odindo1 and Jacob Mashilo2, 1 Crop Science, School of Agricultural Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa 2 Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Towoomba Research Station, Private Bag X1615, Bela-Bela 0480, South Africa * Correspondence:
[email protected]; Tel.: +27629810895 Abstract: Citron watermelon (Citrullus lanatus var. citroides) is an underexploited and un- der-researched crop species with potential to contribute to crop diversification in sub-Saharan Af- rica and beyond. The species is commonly cultivated in the drier parts of Southern Africa, mainly by smallholder farmers who maintain a wide range of landraces. Understanding the molecular and morpho-physiological basis for drought adaptation of Citron watermelon in these dry environ- ments can aid in screening local germplasm, identification of suitable traits for crop improvement and improving food system resilience among smallholder farmers by adding to crop diversifica- tion. This paper reviews literature on drought adaptation of C. lanatus spp. (C3 xerophytes), using the systematic review approach. The review discusses; (i) the potential role of citron watermelon in adding to crop diversification, (ii) alternative food uses and potential by-products that can be pro- cessed from citron watermelon and (iii) the role of Sub-Saharan farmers as key actors in conserving citron watermelon germplasm and biodiversity. Finally, the review provides a summary of signif- icant findings and identifies critical knowledge gaps for further research.