More on Genetics...

Just in case my name does not appear next to the thread, this is Joe once again.  This stuff has me so interested I needed to borrow a friend's computer to continue my commentary.
 
In case any of you were wondering, I am 23 years old. I graduated from the university of River Falls-Wisconsin in May 2000 with a B.S. in biotechnology with an emphasis in plant biology. I have grown AG's for three years using store bought seed.  P.R. is about 200lbs.   Now that that is out of the way, let's get down to business.
 
I can help clear up the question regarding classification. Terms such as "race" , "breed", "variety"  are species specific. There are horse breeds, and plant varieties for example. These are not typically regarded as scientific terms per se.  Our favorite pumpkins are classified as Cucurbita maxima.  The first term is called the genus, the second is the species.   Members of the same genus have similar characteristics, but lack the ability to reproduce.  This is why you cant cross smaller pumpkins (Cucurbita pepo) with the big ones.  Members of the same species have the ability to reproduce, in case you couldn't guess.  There are more divisions beyond species, and this is where terms such as breed and variety come into play.  Scientifcally, they are referred to sub-species.  Sub-species arise through geographical and non-geographical differentiation.  Evolutionary mechanisms such as genetic mutations, environmental influence, and selective breeding will over time cause members of the same species to become noticeably different.  This is when the scientists jump in and decide to form a sub-species, breed, variety, whatever you call it.
 
There may come a time when scientists decide to form a sub-species of AG's, but I do not think it will happen in our time.  It takes millions of years for a species to evolve naturally, but with the aggressive breeding practices employed by us growers, we may indeed be speeding this process along. 
 
This may be a little long winded, and I apologize, but it sure feels good to finally justify the tens-of-thousands of dollars I spent on my education.  And to put it to use towards my favorite hobby makes it that much better.
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