Dependence of tuber fluorescence on potato storage duration

Abstract

Fluorescent control methods are very sensitive and able to capture the ultra-weak reactions of tubers to lighting. However, they have not been developed due to the high sensitivity and complexity of the analysis of diverse information from natural samples. An important biological feature of tubers is repair, i.e. an ability to renew the cover tissue in places of mechanical damage. To assess the quality of tubers, natural, and wound periderms, a spectrofluorimeter was used. Optical measurements were performed. The spectra were recorded at a low voltage on a photovoltaic multiplier with a slit width of monochromators – 5 nm, in which the object fluorescence was illuminated by light with a variable wavelength. Results of the spectral reaction to these excitations were recorded. Tubers of potato varieties of different maturity groups were used for research. The relationship between the intensity of fluorescence of vitamins (max 468 nm) and flavins (max 520 nm) most fully reflects the state of tubers in different periods of storage. The aim of the study was to assess the quality of tubers by applying the fluorescent method to create a database for the development of portable devices that do not destroy the control of tubers during their storage.