The seeds were found during archaeological excavations in Libya. Scientists have determined that their age is 6000 years.
Researchers generally agree that watermelons originated in Africa, but where and when they were first domesticated is controversial. The latest evidence suggests that watermelons came from the Nile Valley and are consistent with archaeological evidence.
However, ancient seeds now found in the Sahara desert in Libya seemed to contradict this explanation. Scientists analyzed the genome of the ancient plant found and concluded that the Libyans of the Neolithic period ate watermelons with bitter flesh. Moreover, they grew these plants not for pulp, but for seeds, which are still eaten dried or fried and used in soups and stews.
Source: Ferra
