Cucurbita ecuadorensis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cucurbita ecuadorensis |
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| Mature fruit and cut showing pulp and seeds. | |
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Cucurbita
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| Species: |
ecuadorensis
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Cucurbita ecuadorensis is a special type of squash that grows wild in Ecuador. It was first found in 1965. Unlike the squashes you might see in a garden, this one is a wild plant. It grows as a long, creeping vine, often climbing over other plants and trees.
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Where This Squash Lives
This unique squash has only been found in two western areas of Ecuador: Guayas and Manabí. It likes to grow in these warmer regions.
A Squash from the Past
Scientists believe that people in Ecuador might have started growing this squash about 10,000 years ago. They probably grew it for its tasty seeds. However, we don't have direct records from that time. Today, people no longer grow Cucurbita ecuadorensis as a farm crop.
Super Powers of This Squash
Cucurbita ecuadorensis is very strong! It can fight off many diseases that harm common types of squashes. Because of this, scientists use it to help make other squashes healthier.
How It Helps Other Squashes
Researchers at Cornell University have used Cucurbita ecuadorensis to create new types of common squashes, like Cucurbita maxima. These new squashes can now resist diseases such as papaya ringspot virus, watermelon mosaic virus, and powdery mildew. This helps farmers grow more food and keeps our squashes healthy!
Protecting This Special Plant
The Cucurbita ecuadorensis is listed on the IUCN Red List as a vulnerable plant. This means it needs protection because its numbers are decreasing. Luckily, you can find this special squash growing safely in the Machalilla National Park in Ecuador.
See also
In Spanish: Cucurbita ecuadorensis para niños
