Abstract

Agriculture plays a crucial role in managing sustainable food security, necessitating a better understanding and conservation of plant genetic resource diversity. This study aims to establish the nomenclature of squash species (Cucurbita species) diversity cultivated by farmers in Burkina Faso. A survey was conducted across 19 provinces, divided into nine regions and two climatic zones. Semi-structured individual interviews were carried out using a random sampling method. The data collected were analyzed descriptively and statistically using EXCEL 2016 and R 4.1.2 software. In total, 16 vernacular names were identified among 14 ethnic groups. The survey also identified three species (Cucurbita maxima, Cucurbita moschata, and Cucurbita argyrosperma) in the Sudanian zone, and a single species (Cucurbita maxima) in the Sudano-Sahelian zone. For the different morphotypes of each species, interviewees primarily used the color of the fruit as a distinguishing factor. Consequently, six, four, and two morphotypes were identified for C. maxima, C. moschata, and C. argyrosperma, respectively. There is intraspecific variability in all nine regions surveyed. The high value of the equitability index indicates a regular distribution of morphotypes across these regions. Understanding the distribution and genetic variability levels of squash species will facilitate better management of this plant genetic resource.

Key words: Distribution, diversity, squash, Cucurbita species, Burkina Faso.