The Chromatic Squash Initiative

Methodology & Base Variety

This project moves beyond traditional mutation breeding into the realm of cellular agriculture. We are starting with elite Cucurbita moschata varieties like Honeynut and Butternut squash, known for their excellent flavor and agronomics. We hope the genes for producing anthocyanins (the pigments responsible for red and purple colors) are dormant in squash. Our strategy is to use advanced lab techniques to find a rare mutation that "wakes up" this pathway.

1. Phase 1: In-Vitro Protocol Development (2025-2026): The initial phase is dedicated to establishing our lab procedures. This involves creating sterile cell cultures, determining the LD50 doses for UVC and hydrogen peroxide, and perfecting the process of regenerating whole plants from cultured cells.
2. Phase 2: Mutation & Selection (2026): Once our protocols are established, we will begin the core lab work: inducing mutations in large cell populations and applying oxidative stress to select for rare, high-antioxidant survivor cells.
3. Phase 3: Community Trials (2027 and beyond): The most promising, high-antioxidant cell lines will be regenerated into whole plants. These R1 generation plants and their offspring will then be distributed to our community of growers for real-world evaluation.

How to Participate

This project's success hinges on a "many hands make light work" approach. The more cells we have in play, the higher our chances of finding the rare mutation we're looking for.

• Seeking Lab Partners (All Levels): The in-vitro work is open to anyone with the ability to perform sterile tissue culture. This can range from dedicated home-hobbyists to university labs. If you have the skills and equipment to contribute to the mutation and selection effort, we want to hear from you.
• Community Trials (Beginning 2027): Once we successfully regenerate plants, the project will expand to our entire community. Volunteers will receive seedlings or seeds to grow out these new lines and evaluate the stability of the color trait, flavor, productivity, and overall plant health.

Traits of Interest

While our primary goal is unique flesh color, the selection method focuses on function. We ask our Phase 3 growers to document all traits, including:

• Flesh Color: Any stable expression of red, purple, or blue pigments.
• Plant Vigor: How do these new lines compare to their parent variety?
• Flavor & Texture: Does the new chemistry affect the squash's excellent eating quality?
• Disease Resistance: Has the enhanced antioxidant capacity conferred any other benefits, like improved pest or disease resistance?