Identification of SHORT VEGETATIVE PHASE (SVP)-like genes and necessary responsibility of CmSVPc for the development of lateral branches in melon (Cucumis melo L.)

•Four SVP homologs were identified in melon and designated as CmSVPa, CmSVPb, CmSVPc and CmSVPd.•CmSVPc and CmSVPd could be regulated by exogenous GA3 and all four CmSVPs involved in temperature and light responsive pathways.•Different expression pattern existed between CmSVPc and the other three CmSVPs.•CmSVPc maintained the growth of lateral branches in melon.