Comunicata Scientiae

Cobalt associated with potassium phosphite improves the post-harvest quality of mango cv. Palmer

2023-08-02T11:09:12-03:00

Mango is a highly perishable climacteric fruit with a short post-harvest period. Therefore, to extend shelf life, the mangoes were treated pre-harvest with a potassium phosphite solution (1.4 g/mL KH2PO4) and a control solution (0 g/mL KH₂PO) associated with different doses of cobalt (0; 48; 64; 80; 112 ml.plant-1) at a density of 1.30 g/mL. The work measured physical, chemical, and biochemical variables. Cobalt and potassium phosphite favored maintaining color and firmness and reduced the respiratory rate. The treatments significantly affected the chemical variables, reduced the soluble solids content, conserved ascorbic acid, and preserved the pH. Foliar application of cobalt and potassium phosphite at pre-harvest is an efficient technique for improving shelf life and maintaining mango quality during storage at room temperature.

Quality of minimally processed ‘Monalisa’ apples with antioxidants and edible toppings

2023-03-21T18:43:58-03:00

Minimally processed fruits are an alternative to add value to products that are difficult to sell, in addition to facilitateconsumer consumption. The objective is to research pulp browning inhibition in a simulated commercialization of minimally processed ‘Monalisa’ apples, stored in a refrigerated environment. After being sanitized with sodium hypochlorite, the apples were cut and immersed in the following treatments: the control being sodium erythorbate (ES) + A (distilled water); ES + FM (cassava starch 3%); ES + AS (3% sodium alginate); ES + AM (6% waxy maize starch) and ES + AP (3% pine nut starch), all together with 1% calcium chloride. Afterwards, 10 slices were placed in a polyethylene tray, wrapped in stretchable PVC film and stored in a refrigerated chamber at 4 ºC ± 1 ºC and relative humidity of 90 - 95%. Phytochemical evaluations were performed at 0, 3, 6 and 9 days of storage. The applied treatments maintained fruit quality. The treatment with cassava starch and pine nut starch were efficient in preserving the darkening of the fruit pulp on day 9. As for the waxy corn starch treatment, the enzyme activity was lower in the period of 0 and 6 days, maintaining quality and delaying darkening. The control sample (ES + A + CC) stood out during the 9-day period, as there was a decrease in the activity of polyphenoloxidase and peroxidase enzymes.

Gas exchange in yellow passion fruit hybrids in the Semiarid region

2023-05-08T11:00:23-03:00

Agronomic characterization and exploitation of the genetic variability in plants of the Passiflora can reveal important genetic resources because the Passiflora species grown under semiarid conditions make important contributions to breeding. The aim of this work was to evaluate the vegetative and physiological characteristics of fifteen yellow passion fruit hybrids in semiarid conditions. The experiment was conducted at IF Baiano – campus Guanambi, Bahia, Brazil. The 15 treatments were 10 genotypes: H09-10; GP09-02; H09-02; H09-14; H09-07; H09-09; FOP09; GP09-03; H09-30; FOP08 from the Active Germplasm Bank of the Genetic Breeding Program of Embrapa Cassava and Fruits, and five commercial hybrids: FB200; FB300; BRS SC; BRGA; BRS Rubi. The treatments were arranged in a randomized block design, with three replications and five observational units per plot. Vegetative characteristics (main branch length, number of functional leaves, number of nodes, and number of flower buds) were measured at full vegetative development, 90 days after transplanting (DAT). Hybrid H09-10 is the earliest in flowering, physiologically more efficient in the morning, closes stomata in the afternoon, regulates transpiration, and has lower leaf temperature, higher photosynthesis rate, and more efficient water use. Gas exchanges and photosynthesis rates, at 300 DAT, vary between hybrids and reading times: photosynthesis is higher in the morning while transpiration is greater in the afternoon. The reduction in carboxylation efficiency is related to non-stomatal factors. Gas exchange variables of the genotypes tend to be directly correlated with the photosynthetically active radiation incident on the leaf

Quality and postharvest conservation of sour passion fruit genotypes

2023-08-03T10:18:52-03:00

The postharvest phase is a limiting factor for climacteric fruits such as passion fruit due to rapid deterioration causing wilting and favoring the occurrence of pathogenic microorganisms. From this perspective, this study aimed to evaluate the postharvest quality of passion fruit genotypes cultivated in Mâncio Lima, Acre, as a function of the storage period after harvest. The experiment was set up and conducted at the Plant Science Laboratory of the Federal University of Acre, Campus Floresta. The experimental design was in randomized blocks, in a 10 x 5 factorial arrangement referring to 10 sour passion fruit genotypes and five postharvest evaluation periods, with three replications of six fruits. The fruits were evaluated for physical and chemical quality. Analysis of variance and polynomial regression were performed at 5% significance. The genotypes showed oscillations regarding the physical and chemical characteristics of the fruits depending on the storage time. All evaluated genotypes are recommended for cultivation. However, when harvested directly from the ground after detached from the plant, fruits must be stored for up to 10 days at room temperature.

Araceae Juss. used as an ornamental in Northeastern Brazil

2023-10-08T12:29:41-03:00

Araceae Juss. is widely used by the local population for various purposes, including food, mysticism and crafts. The aim of this study was to conduct a survey of Araceae species used in neighborhoods in Floriano, Piauí, and to classify these species based on their origin and habit. The research employed the "Rapport" technique and semi-structured interviews with residents of the of Floriano, Piauí, along with an analysis of the species use value. Nineteen species belonging to thirteen genera were documented, categorized into two main uses: ornamental and mystical. Species such as Aglaonema commutatum Schott, Dieffenbachia seguine Schott, Epipremnum aureum (Linden & André) G.S.Bunting and Zamioculca zamiifolia (Lodd.)Engl. exhibited the highest use value (0.016 each). These species are predominantly cultivated and are of exotic origin, with varying habits including climbing, epiphytic, hemiepiphytic, and herbaceous. Caladium bicolor, Monstera obliqua and Philodendron acutatum are species native to Brazil, found in the Northeast region. However, only while Philodendron acutatum was recorded on the flora of the state. Studies like this contributes to the dissemination of local knowledge and facilitate the exploration of the Araceae flora. Further research is warranted to identify additional use categories and to catalog Araceae species specific to the state, given the limited availability of studies on this plant family in the region.

Pre-harvest application of 2-(3-chlorophenoxy) propionic acid on pineapple plants

2023-09-04T08:25:58-03:00

The application of plant regulators such as exogenous auxin may provide effects on the translocation of carbohydrates to plant sinks, which may result in larger parthenocarpic fruits. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of the application of 2-(3-chlorophenoxy) propionic acid on the growth and quality of pineapple fruits. The experiment was carried out in a randomized block design. After floral induction, 2-(3-chlorophenoxy) propionic acid (CPA) was applied directly on the inflorescences at the following doses: 0 mg L-1; 40.0 mg L-1; 80.0 mg L-1; 120.0 mg L-1 and 160.0 mg L-1. Growth evaluations continued until 84 days after application, measuring fruit length (cm) with and without crown, crown length (cm), leaf D dry matter, fruit weight with and without crown (g), calculating if also, the absolute and relative growth rates. The post-harvest and quality characteristics of the fruits were also evaluated, as well as the harvest index. The application of CPA significantly reduces the length and weight of the crown of the fruits, however, the exogenous application of auxin provided an increase in the weight of the fruit. Regarding the post-harvest analysis, the application of CPA reduced the content of soluble solids in the fruit pulp.

Development of scallion (Allium fistulosum L.) in substrate and homeopathic solutions of water hyacinth

2023-10-08T12:31:53-03:00

Scallion (Allium fistulosum) is a widely appreciated condiment in the Brazilian population, with significant economic and nutritional importance. Organic cultivation alternatives for this crop have been sought. From this perspective, this study aimed to evaluate the development of scallion in a substrate produced from the floating aquatic plant known as Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes), combined with soil or without it, with the application of homeopathic solutions. A completely randomized experimental design was used, with five replicates and six treatments, namely: Pure Water Hyacinth Substrate (SAP); Water Hyacinth Substrate with Homeopathic solution (SA+HA); Soil and Water Hyacinth Substrate (S+SA); Soil and Water Hyacinth Substrate with Homeopathic solution (S+SA+HA); Pure Soil (SP), and Soil with Homeopathic solution (S+HA). The following parameters were evaluated 60 days after planting: plant height in centimeters (AP), shoot diameter in millimeters (DP), and the number of shoots (NP). Analysis of variance revealed that plant height (AP) did not exhibit significant differences between substrates with or without the homeopathic solution. In contrast, substrates containing Water Hyacinth exhibited greater shoot diameter and number of shoots. This study showed that the Water Hyacinth substrate and homeopathic solution had promising results in the production of scallion seedlings when combined with soil.

Development of Tuta absoluta (Meyrick, 1917) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) in tomato genotypes

2023-11-03T10:36:07-03:00

Tomato plants are the most widely cultivated fruit vegetables globally. The tomato leaf miner (Tuta absoluta) is the leading pest of this crop and can cause up to 100% loss of production. Therefore, the aim was to evaluate the development and resistance of antibiosis and non-preference types (antixenosis) for oviposition and feeding of T. absoluta in commercial tomato hybrids in choice and no-choice tests. For the experiments, an open-pollinated tomato cultivar was used as a control: ‘Santa Clara’ cultivar - susceptible - Italian type, along with eight commercial tomato hybrids were used: ‘Compack’ - salad type, ‘Caniati’ - Italian type, ‘Grazianni’ - Italian type, ‘Sweet Heaven’ - grape type, ‘Cascade’ - cherry type, ‘Ellen’ - salad type, ‘Bento’ - Italian type, and ‘Dominador’ - salad type, all having an indeterminate growth habit. According to the evaluated biological parameters (dendrogram and principal component analysis - PCA), the ‘Sweet Heaven’ hybrid showed a negative effect on the development of T. absoluta, with an increase in the duration of the larval, adult, and total phases, and low larval and total viability. The tomato hybrid ‘Cascade’ exhibited lower attractiveness for T. absoluta oviposition in no-choice tests. The tomato hybrids 'Sweet Heaven', 'Compack', and ‘Cascade’ showed a lower percentage of leaf area consumed. However, ‘Dominador’, ‘Santa Clara’, and ‘Ellen’ were the tomato genotypes that showed higher susceptibility to the development of T. absoluta, encompassing high larval, pupal, and total viability (larva-adult period). Concluding that the ‘Sweet Heaven’ hybrid negatively affected the development cycle of T. absoluta, while the ‘Cascade’ hybrid exhibited lower attractiveness for oviposition.

Transformation of dolomite powder into value added fertilizer and its effect on growth and yield of tomato plant

2024-04-22T10:23:39-03:00

In Dolomite industry, various purposes have led to the generation of large amount of dolomite powder during mechanical processing. Dolomite is a rich source of Ca and Mg and XRF analysis showed the presence of certain micro and ultra micro plant nutrients in it. In the raw form these nutrients are not in easily plant accessible form. In the present research, dolomite powder was converted into easily plant accessible form and its value-added fertilizer is formed by mixing vermicompost with chemically converted dolomite powder. Three types of experiments- control (simple soil), control with compost (soil + vermicompost), and different percentages [X, 2X, 3X, 4X & 5X (X= 3%)] of value-added fertilizer with soil were performed on growth and yield of tomato plant. It was found that among all treatments, 5X showed maximum plant growth, crop yield with increased biomass.

Physicochemical characteristics of andisols and their correlation to potato yield based on land mapping units

2024-03-06T09:19:43-03:00

The high phosphate retention in andisol soil is often associated with a decrease in potato yield. Additionally, identification of the physical and chemical characteristics of andisols and their correlation to potato yield through soil mapping units (SMUs) is necessary to facilitate field surveys. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the physicochemical characteristics of andisols with a focus on available phosphorus (P) and the correlation to potato production based on SMUs. The experiment was conducted in Karo District, North Sumatra, Indonesia, from July 2022 to February 2023. A descriptive-analytical method was used by overlaying maps of slope, soil types, and altitude until 10 SMUs were selected that were planted with potatoes. Soil physicochemical properties were identified, while Pearson correlation analysis was performed on available-P and potato yield using IBM SPSS software. The results showed that the silt and clay fractions positively correlated with available-P in andisols. All soil physical characteristics were categorized as very weak to weak in supporting potato yield. A total of four SMUs including 1, 5, 8, and 10 were found to have lower available-P and very low to moderate correlations with soil pH, organic-C, C:N ratio, cation exchange capacity (CEC), as well as total-P. Based on the results, potato yield could increase by 1.765 and 0.380 tons ha-1 through the addition of organic-C and C:N ratio in Karo District. Therefore, soil amendment is required as an alternative to improve andisols soil.

Bioinsecticides based on neem (Azadirachta indica) and rue (Ruta graveolens) against Agrotis ipsilon

2024-04-22T10:04:08-03:00

Agrotis ipsilon is an important pest of several crops, where it causes damage to various parts of the plant such as stems, roots, leaves and tubers. Due to the growing demand for controlling these pests, there is a constant need for new products as the organisms acquire resistance after continuous contact. And this also generates a demand for bioinsecticides, which normally pose a lower health risk and are less harmful to the environment. Among the plants commonly used as insecticides are neem and rue, which have already been studied for several pests, although never together. This work aimed to determine the insecticidal activity of a natural insecticide derived from a mixture of neem and rue, commonly used in the region of Senhor do Bonfim-BA against A. ipsilon. Four different solutions were prepared, containing a) 20 neem leaves, 10 rue leaves and 5 A. ipsilon caterpillars, b) 20 neem leaves and 10 rue leaves, c) 20 neem leaves and d) 10 rue leaves. Water was tested as control. In the tests carried out, both the mixture popularly used in the region, containing neem, rue, and A. ipsilon caterpillars, as well as the solution containing only neem and rue had good results, killing all caterpillars in 72 hours. Isolated plant extracts did not obtain good results, only delaying the formation of pupae for neem extracts. Therefore, the mixture of Neem and Rue showed good insecticidal potential against A. ipsilon, with much higher activity than its isolated components.

Mineral concentration in citrus peel flours

2024-04-22T10:17:26-03:00

Citrus fruits are known for their health benefits but managing processing waste is a challenge. Extracting bioactive compounds from these residues to create new products is promising, but mineral analysis is essential for food safety. The objective of this study was to analyze how the methodology for obtaining flour from sweet passion fruit peel, Tahiti lime, Murcott tangerine, and pearl pineapple influences the amounts of minerals Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, Cr, and to determine the presence of these minerals in flours according to the defined limits. Maceration demonstrated a significant reduction in mineral content, such as iron, zinc, manganese, copper, and chromium, in the flours of lime and tangerine peels and passion fruit albedo. There was an increase in mineral levels after this process, such as zinc in passion fruit flavedo flour and manganese in tangerine and pineapple peels. Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, Cr were respectively determined in 100g^-1in flours, from lime peel: 3,696mg; 1,273mg; 22,834mg, 0.422mg; 1104.945 μg; tangerine peel: 1,322mg; 2,560mg; 13,571mg; 0.236mg; passion fruit albedo: 8,596mg; 6,480mg; 76,003mg; 1,031mg; passion fruit flavedo 8,609mg; 3,363mg; 86,167mg; 2,317mg; in pineapple skin: 12,181mg; 0.704mg; 71,018mg; *mg; 2224.215 μg. Cr was not determined in the flours: albedo and flavedo from passion fruit, and tangerine and Cu from pineapple peel. Flours are sources of minerals but must be consumed with caution due to high quantities that can exceed the maximum tolerable intake limits.

Consumer liking of steamed green Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa ssp. chinensis) cultivated in formulated vegetable waste-based organic hydroponic solutions

2024-05-13T23:52:00-03:00

Chinese cabbage or pak choy (Brassica rapa ssp. chinensis) is often consumed because of its high nutritional content and several health advantages. Due to their promotion as being healthier and more ecologically friendly, hydroponic vegetables have seen a recent spike in consumer interest. The production of Chinese cabbage involved the processing of the vegetable waste to create various hydroponic solution formulations (F1 = banana peels, eggshells, and bean sprouts; F2 = banana humps, onion peels, bean sprouts, and moringa leaves; F3 = moringa leaves, onion peels, and bean sprouts; and F4 = AB Mix solution). They were applied at concentrations of 600, 900, 1,200, and 1,500 parts per million. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the type of hydroponic growth solutions and Chinese cabbage customer acceptance. As a result, using a hedonic test of consumer liking, a panel of 32 untrained individuals was asked to show their liking score on sensory attributes of Chinese cabbage. There was a significant difference in the color liking of Chinese cabbage as an effect of hydroponic solution formulation. However, both organic vegetable waste-based formulations did not statistically substantially affect consumer acceptance, which includes color, taste, flavor, texture, and overall liking. Ultimately, vegetable waste-based organic formulations can be used to produce Chinese cabbage that is as acceptable to customers as those prepared with inorganic AB-Mix solution.

Fruit quality of 'Stanley' plums based on soil composition across diverse agro-ecological zones of Morocco

2024-05-18T20:35:15-03:00

The national production of plums, especially prunes, is strongly increasing, attracting attention in the local market. This study aims to assess the impact of soil chemical composition on the nutritional and physicochemical quality of plums of the variety ''STANLEY'' (Prunus Domestica L.) across diverse agro-ecological zones of Morocco. Through a preliminary survey of 21 growers in three distinct regions: Sais, Atlas and Oriental. Supplemented by sampling at eight locations in eastern and western Morocco, three categories of parameters were considered in this study: (1) parameters related to cultivation conditions, including climate, geographical structuring, plot size and planting age; (2) those providing information on physico-chemical properties, nutritional value and sugar content; (3) parameters related to soil quality. The surveyed farmers are proprietors of cultivated plots ranging from 6 to 70 hectares, with an average yield of 12T/ h. Notably, 28% of producers with recently established plantations (less than 10 years) have achieved yields exceeding 15T/h, indicating the fertility of trees at this stage of maturity. The findings affirm that soil fertility and soil amendment are the major factors contributing to high-quality fruit (large caliber, high Brix rate, intact product…). Additionally, this study highlights the significance of climate and irrigation in achieving the desired quality of plums.