June 8, 2008 – 10:54 am

An exotic black watermelon was auctioned off in Japan for a record shattering $6100

The “Densuke” watermelon is a 24lbs exotic black-skinned variety grown only on the northern island of Hokkaido. The prized watermelon was the biggest selected from 65 from the season’s first harvest.

An unnamed bidder is a marine products dealer who wanted to support local agriculture.

Normally, these watermelons go for $200-$300 a pop. Although not specific, the unbelievable price of this exotic watermelons were explained:

“it’s the unusual black skin and unparalleled taste, It’s a watermelon, but it’s not the same,” said Kazuyoshi Ohira, a spokesman for the Tohma Agricultural Cooperative in Hokkaido

Here’s the real kicker, though, the watermelon is a bargain compared to the $23,500 recently paid in Japan for a pair of ‘Yubari’ cantaloupes.