On the development of descriptors in small bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L. var. muricata (Willd.) Chakrav)

Small bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L. var. muricata (Willd.) Chakrav.) is an under-utilized vegetable with ethnobotanical and therapeutic values, under domestication interphase. This taxon deserves a distinct crop status, owing to the existence of well-marked distinguishing morphological traits, unique flavour taste apart from M. charantia, wide variability within taxon, preferential cultivation by traditional farmers in Indian subcontinent occurrence distinct, named landraces. However, presently this facing threat genetic erosion, restricting mostly at homestead level throughout region. In present study, seventy-four small collections across India were assessed for understanding their classification, further devising key descriptors helpful effective characterization utilization. order describe it level, botanical description also worked out. Morphological traits such as shape lobing leaf, size fruit, nature tubercles ridges, size, colour seeds, besides robustness extended growth period, showed remarkable character differentiation cultivated gourd. A set 45 35 evaluation have been developed, out which 27 26 are categorized minimum descriptor list.