Genetic and OMICS analysis of nectary development: identification of key traits for improvement of foraging activity

Pollinators are fundamental to both global food security and biodiversity. Floral nectar, produced by specialized organs - nectaries, is a key driver of plant–pollinator interactions, yet the molecular basis of nectary development and nectar secretion remains poorly understood. This work explores the genetic and developmental regulation of nectar-related traits in Cucumis melo L. (melon), a crop that is entirely dependent on insect pollination. Our project integrates developmental genetics, imaging, and ecological phenotyping across three axes. First, we established a non-invasive, high-resolution imaging pipeline using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) to study flower structure and nectar-related traits in 3D. This approach allowed to compare nectary morphology between male and female flowers and quantify traits relevant for pollinator accessibility, revealing a positive correlation between nectary size and nectar volume. Second, we used OMICS approaches to characterize the gene networks controlling nectary development in unisexual flowers. The analysis of gene expression from stage 9 of flower development until nectaries become functional is of major importance for the identification of key regulators controlling their development. Third, we explored melon germplasm diversity for nectar traits and bee visitation. Together, these results provide new insights into the developmental and genetic control of floral rewards and lay the foundation for breeding pollinator-friendly cultivars. Given the urgent need to support pollinator biodiversity and improve crop resilience, our work highlights the importance of including ecological traits in crop breeding programs. The tools and knowledge developed here open promising avenues to enhance plant–pollinator interactions in agriculture.