Are Square Watermelons Genetically Modified

52461952_b243d9721a_b — Square watermelon. Photograph: laughlin, flickr (click photograph to see in original context)

This is an annex to my previous mail service: Not Genetically Engineered: Watermelons

At the time I idea the only awesome affair near watermelons that people calling genetic technology was seedlessness. It turns out there are also foursquare watermelons. Are they genetically engineered? I guess my title does kind of give away the answer.

Square watermelons aren't the product of genetic engineering, or radiation mutagenesis, nor even conventional breeding. Instead they are a effect of a technology known as "the container."* Farmers, primarily in Nihon, place a box around a fertilized watermelon flower. Every bit the watermelon grows it fills the container, somewhen filling even the corners. When the box is removed, it reveals a cube shaped watermelon.

There'south no real benefit to growing a cube shaped watermelon, nevertheless some people volition pay more for ane. Interest in strangely shaped or colored foods in a natural response for many of united states human beings.

221462813_e430a52bda_o — Pears within bottles, when they clearly couldn't fit through the neck. Isn't biology fun? photo: kasiaeryn, flickr (click to see the photo in its original context)

It's the same things (fruit growing inside containers, and a fascination with strange food and drink) which results in consummate pears within bottles**. The bottle is put around the fertilized pear flower, and the pear develops inside. A neat way to puzzle people who usually think in terms of buying nutrient rather than growing it.

*<sarcasm>Conspicuously we're playing with forces beyond our control hither. When volition we crazy scientists terminate trying to play god!</sarcasm>

**If you're interested, at that place'southward a six infinitesimal youtube video with all the info yous could ever possibly want on the proper technique for growing pears within wine and liquor bottles. <- Be forewarned! If, similar me, you don't actually have access to a pear tree, watching this video volition just leave you frustrated with your life.