The species is sometimes referred to as muskmelon,[4] but there is no consensus about the usage of this term, as it can also be used as a specific name for the musky netted-rind American cantaloupe, or as a generic name for any sweet-flesh variety such the inodorous smooth-rind honeydew melon.

Research has revealed that seeds and rootstocks were among the goods traded along the caravan routes of the Ancient World.

Some botanists consider melons native to the Levant and Egypt, while others place their origin in Iran,[7] India or Central Asia.

[10] Melons prefer warm, well-fertilized soil with good drainage that is rich in nutrients,[8] but are vulnerable to downy mildew and anthracnose.

Variants within these subspecies fall into groups whose genetics largely agree with their phenotypic traits, such as disease resistance, rind texture, flesh color, and fruit shape.

Variants or landraces (some of which were originally classified as species; see the synonyms list to the right) include C. melo var.

[16] Outside Asia, snake melons are grown in the United States, Italy, Sudan and parts of North Africa, including Egypt.

Researchers have shown that seeds and rootstocks were among the goods traded along the caravan routes of the Ancient World.

[9] Melon was domesticated in West Asia and over time many cultivars developed with variety in shape and sweetness.