[DSRP Evidence](https://dsrpevidence.org/)

# Ancient DNA reveals early use of melons in China's Song dynasty

Renner et al., 2026, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences — Archaeology

Patterns: [Distinctions](https://dsrpevidence.org/pattern/distinctions), [Relationships](https://dsrpevidence.org/pattern/relationships)

## In short

A categorical distinction (a non-dessert melon type unlike modern varieties) is explained by a relational/historical connection — a trade-route origin — rather than by independent local domestication.

## What they found (results)

Ancient DNA from melon seeds at a 10th-13th century Song-dynasty port in southeastern China showed light-green flesh and yellow peel unlike modern dessert melons, and traced the fruit's origin to South Asia rather than local wild Chinese ancestors, most likely via a southern route through the Himalayas.

These researchers were not testing DSRP. The finding is theirs; the correspondence to DSRP is drawn by this site.

[Source](https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2610284123)