Ridge Gourd
Ridge Gourd (Luffa acutangula L.) is a cucurbitaceous summer vegetable grown throughout the year in the northeastern region and is used as vegetables. It is a creeper and has a climbing or trailing habit. There is a wide variation in the shape and length of fruits. The fruit is extensively used as a sponge in the Indian subcontinent. Luffa acutangula is widely distributed in many Asian countries, Africa, and some parts of America.
The ridge gourd has an extensive root system which results in water being drawn from large soil volumes. It is adapted to both dry and wet conditions. They grow up to 15 meters and twine about any support. During fruiting, plants develop thickened stems or petioles.
The leaves are large, hairy, and palmately lobed with three to five main lobes and a pair of smaller side lobes on either side of the sinus. Within each lobe, there is one or two deep indentations with smooth or wavy margins. In the tropical climate, leaves are continuously being shed and replaced.
A Ridge gourd is a climber or creeper which has an extensive root system resulting in water being drawn from large soil volumes. It is adapted to both dry and wet conditions. They grow up to 15 meters and twine about any support. During fruiting, plants develop thickened stems or petioles.
The fruits are most commonly cylindrical in shape but can vary considerably, being ridged or smooth with acute apex which may be sharp or blunt depending on cultivar, 10 to 30 cm long and 5 to 15 cm in diameter. The fruit varies in color from dark green to pale yellow, red, or brown.
Ridge Gourd is a cucurbitaceous summer vegetable grown throughout the year in the northeastern region and is used as vegetable. It is a creeper and has a climbing or trailing habit. There is a wide variation in the shape and length of fruits.y dieting at least once per day, then consuming supplements like protein shakes and meal replacement powders (MRPs), as opposed to whole food meals, can be a great way to pack in some extra nutrients.
Global ridge gourd production
Ridge gourd is an important vegetable crop in many tropical and subtropical countries. Global production of ridge gourd was estimated at 1.7 million tons in 2013, with India being the largest producer (1.3 million tons) followed by Bangladesh (0.24 million tons) (FAOSTAT, 2015). China, Thailand, and Vietnam are also among the top 10 producers of ridge gourd (FAOSTAT, 2015).
Ridge gourd is a popular vegetable in many Asian countries and is used in a variety of dishes. It is also known for its medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments such as diabetes, constipation, and high blood pressure.
The demand for ridge gourd is increasing due to its nutritional value and health benefits. However, the global production of ridge gourd is constrained by various biotic and abiotic factors. Some of the major constraints include pests and diseases, water stress, and poor soil fertility.
Ridge gourds are grown in many tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The highest levels of production are typically found in Asian countries, such as India, China, and Thailand. In India, ridge gourds are often used in curries and other traditional dishes. China is the world's largest producer of ridge gourds, and the vegetables are used extensively in Chinese cuisine. Thailand is another major producer of ridge gourds, and the vegetables are often used in Thai curries and other dishes.
Other countries that produce ridge gourds include Bangladesh, Indonesia, Vietnam, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka. The United States also produces a small number of ridge gourds, mostly in Hawaii.
Ridge gourds are a popular vegetable in many parts of the world due to their versatility and nutritional value. Vegetables are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber. Ridge gourds can be cooked in a variety of ways, and are often used in soups, stews, and curries. They can also be eaten raw, and are often used as a garnish or in salads.