ABSTRACT
The major and minor cucurbits that are grown in India occupy about 5.6% of the total vegetable production. Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L), pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima Duch), melon (C. melo L.), watermelon (Citrulluslanatus (Thunb), squash (C. pepo L.) bottle gourd (Lagenaria sciceraria Standl. var. hispida Hara) which belong to the family of Cucurbitaceae are widely cultivated in India. They are used in different forms, that is, sweet (ash gourd, pointed gourd), salad (cucumber, gherkins, long melon), deserts (melons), and pickles (gherkins). These crops are often attacked by many foliar fungal pathogens which causes substantial yield loss. Cucurbits are susceptible to diseases such as downy mildew (Pseudoperonospora cubensis), powdery mildew (Sphaerotheca fuliginea, Erysiphe cichoracearum), fusarium wilt (Fusarium spp.), Cercospora leaf spot (Cercospora citrullina), bacterial wilt (Erwinia tracheiphila), Phytophthora blight (Phytophthora spp.) and anthracnose (Colletotrichum spp.). Researchers have utilized a number of cultivated and wild species to develop improved varieties and resistance parental lines. Approximately, 112 open pollinated varieties of cucurbits have been recommended for cultivation at national and state levels. Among them, 26 hybrids and seven disease resistant varieties of major cucurbits have also been developed against various pathogens. Similarly, 48 improved varieties in eight major cucurbits has been identified and recommended for cultivation. The main aim of research on cucurbitaceous vegetables in India is to improve production and productivity on sustainable basis through developing of biotic and abiotic resistant hybrids coupled with good quality 204attributes. The standardized agro-techniques and plant protection measures could be increased in the yield potential of cucurbits.
