International Journal of Horticulture, 2024, Vol.14, No.4, 250-262 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/ijh 251 This study comprehensively explores the domestication process of pumpkins by integrating historical perspectives and modern genetic evidence. It specifically explores the historical background and significance of pumpkin domestication, analyzes the genetic diversity and structure of domesticated pumpkins and their wild ancestors, and identifies genetic variations and structural changes associated with domestication traits. Additionally, it evaluates the impact of domestication on the breeding potential and agronomic characteristics of modern pumpkin varieties. By combining historical insights with modern genetic evidence, the study provides a comprehensive understanding of pumpkin domestication, revealing the complex interactions between human activities and plant evolution. This study offers valuable insights into the comprehensive understanding of pumpkin domestication, contributing to the conservation and improvement of this important crop. 2 Historical Perspectives on Pumpkin Domestication 2.1 Early evidence of pumpkin use by humans The domestication of pumpkins (Cucurbita spp.) is deeply rooted in human history, with evidence suggesting that pumpkins were among the earliest crops cultivated by humans. The bitter flesh of wild Cucurbita species was generally inedible, leading early humans to initially consume the seeds, which were more palatable and nutritious (Lelley et al., 2009). Archaeological evidence indicates that pumpkins were first domesticated in the Americas around 10,000 years ago, making them one of the oldest domesticated crops from the Neolithic revolution (Paris, 2016; Barrera-Redondo et al., 2021). These early humans likely gathered wild pumpkins for their seeds, which provided a valuable source of nutrition due to their high oil and protein content (Kistler et al., 2015). The consumption of pumpkin seeds and flesh is evidenced by phytoliths and starch grains found on ancient grinding tools and in human dental remains, indicating that pumpkins were an important part of the diet long before they were fully domesticated. 2.2 Archaeological findings of pumpkin cultivation Archaeological discoveries have provided substantial insights into the early cultivation of pumpkins. Seeds and remnants of Cucurbita have been found in various archaeological sites across the Americas, dating back to approximately 10,000 years ago (Paris, 2016; Barrera-Redondo et al., 2021). These findings suggest that pumpkins were widely cultivated by indigenous peoples long before European contact. The presence of pumpkin seeds in mastodon dung deposits further supports the idea that these plants were part of the prehistoric landscape and were likely dispersed by large herbivores before their extinction (Kistler et al., 2015). Archaeologists have discovered remnants of ancient farming systems, including irrigation channels and cultivated fields, indicating advanced agricultural practices involving pumpkins (Lombardo et al., 2020; Herrmann et al., 2023). The transition from wild to cultivated pumpkins involved selective breeding and careful cultivation, ultimately leading to the development of various domesticated varieties. Additionally, genomic studies have revealed that the domestication of pumpkins involved significant genetic changes, including the loss of bitterness, which made the fruits more palatable to humans (Chomicki et al., 2019; Kates et al., 2021). 2.3 Historical records and documentation Historical records and documentation provide further evidence of the significance of pumpkins in human history. Indigenous peoples of the Americas, including the Maya, Aztec, and various Native American tribes, have long histories of cultivating and utilizing pumpkins. By the time of European contact in 1492, several cultivar groups of pumpkins and squashes had already been developed by indigenous American peoples (Paris, 2016). One notable historical document is the Florentine Codex, compiled in the 16th century by the Spanish friar Bernardino de Sahagún. This extensive work provides detailed descriptions of Aztec agriculture, including the cultivation and uses of pumpkins. These records, along with iconography and literature, highlight the widespread use and cultivation of pumpkins across different cultures and regions.
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