II.2. SQUASHES, PUMPKINS, ZUCCHINIS, GOURDS (CURCURBITA SPECIES) – 83
Chapter 2. Squashes, pumpkins, zucchinis and gourds (Curcurbita species)
This chapter deals with the biology of squashes, pumkins, zucchinis and gourds
(Cucurbita species). It contains information for use during the risk/safety regulatory
assessment of genetically engineered varieties intended to be grown in the environment
(biosafety). It includes elements of taxonomy, centres of origin and distribution,
morphological characters, reproductive biology, genetics, hybridisation and
introgression, crop production and cultivation practices, interactions with other
organisms, pests and pathogens, and biotechnological developments.
The chapter was prepared by the OECD Working Group on the Harmonisation
of Regulatory Oversight in Biotechnology, with Mexico as the lead country and the
collaboration of the United States. It was initially issued in August 2012. Data from
FAOSTAT have been updated.