Cucurbita ecuadorensis
Cucurbita ecuadorensis H.C.Cutler & Whitaker
Cucurbita ecuadorensis is a species of squash native to the western provinces of Guayas and Manabí in Ecuador. It is a creeping vine that often climbs over other vegetation. This species was described in 1965 and is known to have been domesticated in the region approximately 10,000 years ago, likely for its seeds. Although no direct cultivation records exist, it is no longer grown. The species is notable for its resistance to several Cucurbita diseases and has been used in breeding programs to introduce resistance to papaya ringspot virus, watermelon mosaic virus, and powdery mildew into Cucurbita maxima. Listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, it is protected within Machalilla National Park.
Description
Cucurbita ecuadorensis is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family and is part of the Cucurbita genus. It was first described in 1965 and is found in Ecuador and Peru. This wild squash species is a climbing vine and is adapted to grow in the region's vegetation. Its historical domestication is inferred from archaeological evidence, though it is no longer cultivated. The plant has been utilized in agricultural research to enhance disease resistance in cultivated squash varieties. It is currently listed as vulnerable by the IUCN and is conserved in Machalilla National Park.
Distribution
Global · Ecuador · Peru
