Comparative Analysis of Qualitative Attributes for Selection of Calabaza Genotypes in the Southeast United States

Cucurbita moschata, commonly known as winter squash, tropical squash, and calabaza, is native to Central America. This tropical squash thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, including parts of the southeastern U.S. and is very popular among people of Hispanic and West Indian heritage. Development of calabaza cultivars that meet consumer acceptability is a major goal in breeding programs. The current study aims to determine and compare the quality parameters of novel calabaza germplasm lines with that of commercially available cultivars of calabaza (La Estrella and Soler) and butternut squash (Whatman Butternut). All cultivars ranged greatly in quality parameters, with the most promising germplasms highlighted within the study including UFTP 8 and UFTP 24. The basis of this ranking was dependent on these germplasm lines' desirable attributes, including their color saturation (chroma (>80) (using the CIELAB scale)), degrees Brix (11.6 and 10.7 respectively), yeast fermentable extract (>67%), and firmness/hardness, (>3600). These findings show the potential to enhance consumer preferences for calabaza through breeding and provides a basis for commercial release of the superior germplasm identified.

Automated summary

This study aimed to determine and compare the quality parameters of novel calabaza germplasm lines with commercially available cultivars of calabaza and butternut squash. Promising germplasms, such as UFTP 8 and UFTP 24, showed high quality attributes including color saturation, degrees Brix, yeast fermentable extract, and firmness/hardness. These findings demonstrate the potential to enhance consumer preferences for calabaza through breeding and provide a basis for commercial release of superior germplasm.