Non‐invasive photoacoustic spectroscopic determination of relative endogenous nitric oxide and ethylene content stoichiometry during the ripening of strawberries Fragaria anannasa (Duch.) and avocados Persea americana (Mill.) 1

Abstract

Employing non‐invasive photoacoustic spectrometry, emissions of nitric oxide (NO) and ethylene in post‐harvest strawberries and avocados were monitored. A clear‐cut stoichiometric relationship was found between the two gases: unripe fruit manifesting high NO and low ethylene levels—the converse in ripe fruit. Findings are discussed in the light of putative control of ethylene‐promoted fruit senescence by endogenous NO.