Adapting to Social–Ecological Risks to the Conservation of a Muskmelon Landrace in India

Crop landraces are vanishing alarmingly worldwide, posing serious risks to the livelihoods of resource-poor farmers; this study, conducted using ‘vulnerability’ and ‘resilience theory’ frameworks, sought delineate social–ecological, climatic policy hindrances conservation a muskmelon landrace ‘Jaunpuri Netted’ traditionally grown in eastern Uttar Pradesh, India. Our results showed that blue bull menace, market constraints erratic rainfall have gradually emerged as severe stresses landrace. Yet, set enablers including relative ease crop management, pleasant fruit taste, perceived livelihood opportunities cultural legacy seem offset these stresses, at least partly, keeping farmers engaged cultivation. The Tobid regression analysis revealed educated with large landholdings were likely grow on relatively small acreages, constraints, menace major future muskmelon-based livelihoods. A growing obsession higher yields has led virtual eclipse traditional management practices, further enhancing vulnerability growers. Addressing challenges requires some changes ways which is managed traded. While growers need revisit present chemical-intensive adequate research support remain requisite unveiling unique nutraceutical properties landrace, promoting organic farming, reviving seed-based business opportunities, creating strong linkages enhance resilience