Fruit Color Research Articles

Physiological and Biochemical Effects of Intermittent Warming on 'Marmandi' Turning Tomato Fruits During Low-Temperature Storage

This experiment was conducted on the variety 'Marmandi' turning tomato fruits to investigate the effect of intermittent warming temperatures during extended low chilling temperature storage (21 days) on the subsequent ripening quality of tomato fruits. The quality was measured by assessing the quantitative amount of total phenolic compounds, chlorogenic acid, and ascorbic acid, as well as the development of fruit color and the evaluation of chilling injury (CI) symptoms. The results indicated that the amounts of total phenolic compounds and chlorogenic acid increased significantly during continuous low-temperature storage and after subsequent transfer to room temperature, with this increase being associated with significant loss of ascorbic acid. More frequent periods of intermittent warming (IW) during low-temperature storage were very effective in significantly decreasing the rate of accumulation of phenolic compounds, chlorogenic acid, and ascorbic acid losses. A significant reciprocal relationship between the amounts of chlorogenic acid and ascorbic acid was observed. Additionally, the results showed that as IW time increased, its effectiveness in retarding CI significantly improved.

Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses reveal molecular and metabolic regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis in three varieties of currant

Anthocyanins are natural plant metabolites that are beneficial for human health. In order to study the fruit coloring mechanism mediated by anthocyanin biosynthesis in three currant varieties (white currant, red currant and black currant), we used a combination of transcriptomics and metabolomics analyses. Our comprehensive examination revealed that anthocyanins play a pivotal role in regulating the red and purple hues of black currant and red currant fruits. Specifically, Delphinidin-3-O-rutinoside, Pelargonidin-3-O-rutinoside, Cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside, Cyanidin-3,5-O-diglucoside, Cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside-5-O-glucoside and Petunidin-3-O-glucoside emerged as key anthocyanins in black currant, while Cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside (Keracyanin), Cyanidin-3-O-sambubioside[Cyanidin-3-O-(2″-O-xylosyl)glucoside], Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (Kuromanin) and Cyanidin-3-O-(2″-O-xylosyl)rutinoside were identified as crucial anthocyanins in red currant. Transcriptomic data showed that the upregulation of dihydroflavonol 4-reductase (DFR), anthocyanin synthase (ANS), and UDP-glucose-flavonoid-3-O-glucosyltransferase (UFGT) genes significantly promoted the purple coloration of black currant fruit, while increased expression of Chalcone synthase (CHS) and flavonoid 3’-hydroxylase (F3′H) genes significantly intensified the red hue of red currant fruit. Furthermore, through weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), we identified 11 transcription factors, including 3 bHLH, 2 MYB, 3 bZIP and 3 WRKY genes, which may serve as key regulators of anthocyanin biosynthesis. These findings provide a foundational understanding of the color dynamics in different currant varieties fruits throughout their developmental stages.

EjWRKY6 Is Involved in the ABA-Induced Carotenoid Biosynthesis in Loquat Fruit during Ripening.

The yellow-fleshed loquat is abundant in carotenoids, which determine the fruit's color, provide vitamin A, and offer anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer health benefits. In this research, the impact of abscisic acid (ABA), a plant hormone, on carotenoid metabolism and flesh pigmentation in ripening loquat fruits was determined. Results revealed that ABA treatment enhanced the overall content of carotenoids in loquat fruit, including major components like β-cryptoxanthin, lutein, and β-carotene, linked to the upregulation of most genes in the carotenoid biosynthesis pathway. Furthermore, a transcription factor, EjWRKY6, whose expression was induced by ABA, was identified and was thought to play a role in ABA-induced carotenoid acceleration. Transient overexpression of EjWRKY6 in Nicotiana benthamiana and stable genetic transformation in Nicotiana tabacum with EjWRKY6 indicated that both carotenoid production and genes related to carotenoid biosynthesis could be upregulated in transgenic plants. A dual-luciferase assay proposed a probable transcriptional control between EjWRKY6 and promoters of genes associated with carotenoid production. To sum up, pre-harvest ABA application could lead to carotenoid biosynthesis in loquat fruit through the EjWRKY6-induced carotenoid biosynthesis pathway.

Effect of Different Types of Bagging Materials and Its Timing on Quality Mango Production in Barind Region of Bangladesh

To improve the quality fruits of mango (cv. Banana) in Barind areas of Bangladesh three bagging materials were used for three time points e.g. 35, 45 and 55 days. Based on the paper bag three treatments (T1, T2 and T3) were undertaken for the study. Here, T1 = brown, T2 = white, T3 = black polyethylene bag, and for the Control (C) no paper bag was used. When the fruit size was around (7.24 cm long) the bagging materials were applied for its proper covering. Results showed that for all cases like- fruit color (green-yellowish), length (13.75-15.24 cm long), diameter (4.70-5.08 cm long), weight (293.20 g to 350.12 g), TSS (27.00-32.33%), yield (25.34-30.41 t/ha), skin colour (skin sunburn), and fruit quality (reducing splitting and mechanical damage, internal quality of mango), and finally for the ix) shelf life (15.25 days) the brown paper bag gave the best results at 35 days comparisons with other treatments. Without paper bag the control gave the poor results of the studied parameters. Results showed that the shortest shelf-life (8.56 days) was found in control. From this finding it may be concluded that for quality fruits production the bagging types and the duration is very much important. It is clear to us that the bagging with brown paper at 35 days showed better and it is recommended for mango traders, growers and all stakeholders in Bangladesh. It is important for small organic growers who want to sell high quality and healthy fruit of Banana mango to our local and foreign market. This technology is very environment friendly and also cost-effective. J. Bio-Sci. 32(2): 83-92, 2024

Genetic mapping and molecular marker development for white flesh color in tomato.

Fruit color significantly influences the quality of horticultural crops, which affects phytochemical diversity and consumer preferences. Despite its importance, the genetic basis of the white-colored fruit in tomatoes remains poorly understood. In this study, we demonstrate that white-fleshed tomato varieties accumulate fewer carotenoids than yellow-fleshed varieties. We developed various segregating populations by hybridizing red, yellow, and white fruit tomato cultivars. Genetic analysis revealed that the white fruit color trait is controlled by a single gene that dominates both red and yellow fruits. Bulk segregant RNA sequencing provided a preliminary map of a 3.17 Mb region on chromosome 3 associated with the white color trait. Based on kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) markers, we narrowed the candidate gene region to 819 kb. Within this region, we identified a 4906-bp sequence absence variation near Phytoene Synthase 1 (SlPSY1) specific to white-colored tomatoes. Genotyping of the progeny and natural populations using a single nucleotide polymorphism adjacent to this absence of variation confirmed its key role in white fruit formation. Collectively, our findings provide insights into white fruit trait formation in tomatoes, enabling tomato breeders to precisely introduce white fruit traits for commercial exploitation.

Evaluation of Germicidal UV-C Light for Suppression of Grape Powdery Mildew and Botrytis Bunch Rot in Western Oregon.

Germicidal UV light (UV-C) has been shown to effectively suppress several plant pathogens as well as some arthropod pests. Recent reports describe the efficacy of nighttime applications of UV-C at doses from 100 to 200 J/m2 in vineyards to reduce grape powdery mildew (Erysiphe necator). Our in vitro studies confirmed the efficacy of UV-C to inhibit germination of E. necator and Botrytis cinerea conidia, demonstrated a range of tolerances to UV-C within a collection of E. necator isolates, and showed growth stage-specific effects of UV-C on B. cinerea. Nighttime use of UV-C was evaluated at 48 to 96 J/m2 in small plot trials (<1,000 vines) from 2020 to 2023. Once- or twice-weekly UV-C applications significantly reduced the incidence of foliar powdery mildew compared with non-UV-C-treated controls (P < 0.02). Suppression of powdery mildew on fruit was less consistent, where once or twice weekly UV-C exposure reduced powdery mildew disease severity in 2020 (P = 0.04), 2021 (P = 0.02), and 2023 (P = 0.003) but less so in 2022 (P = 0.07). Bunch rot severity was not significantly reduced with UV-C treatment in any year of the study. Application of UV-C until the onset of fruit color change (veraison) also had a minimal effect on the fruit-soluble solids, pH, anthocyanins, or phenolics in harvested fruit at any UV-C dose or frequency (P > 0.10). Suppression of powdery mildew by nighttime application of UV-C at lower doses in small plots suggests that such treatments merit further evaluation in larger-scale studies in Western Oregon.

The Effect of Putrescine and Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Treatments on Fruit Quality Characteristics of Strawberry (Kabarla cultivar) During Cold Storage

Strawberry is a fruit species that must be harvested at full ripening and at the same time has an extremely short shelf life and deteriorates rapidly. Therefore, it is important to extend the shelf life after harvest. In this study, putrescine and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) were applied during cold storage in order to maintain the quality and extend the shelf life of strawberry fruit. The commercial ripening fruit were treated with 1 mM putrescine and stored in MAP for 20 days. The quality characteristics such as weight loss, soluble solids content, titratable acidity, fruit color, organic acid and phenolic content were measured and analyzed on days 4, 8, 12, 16 and 20 of storage. At the end of 20 days of the cold storage, the highest weight loss was in control treatment (%). The decrease in soluble solids content (SSC) and titratable acidity (TA) values during cold storage was slowed down by MAP and putrescine treatments. Organic acids and phenolic compounds were significantly affected by storage time and MAP and putrescine treatments. After 20 days of the cold storage, citric acid (748.91 mg 100 g -1) and malic acid (258.34 mg 100 g-1), which were determined as basic organic acids, were highest in putrescine treatment. Shikimic acid (0.77 mg 100 g-1) and isocitric acid (112.58 mg 100 g-1) as phenolic compounds were highest in MAP and MAP+ putrescine treatments, respectively. These results releaved that the application of putrescine and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) during cold storage significantly extends the market life of strawberries by preserving their quality attributes.

Combined Metabolome and Transcriptome Analysis Revealed the Accumulation of Anthocyanins in Grape Berry (Vitis vinifera L.) under High-Temperature Stress.

In grape (Vitis vinifera L.) cultivation, high temperatures (HTs) usually reduce the accumulation of anthocyanins. In order to elucidate the regulatory mechanism of anthocyanin biosynthesis under high-temperature environments, we investigated the effects of HT stress at veraison (5% coloring of grape ears) on fruit coloration and anthocyanin biosynthesis in 'Summer Black' (XH) and 'Flame seedless' (FL) grapevines. Compared to the control group (35 °C), the total anthocyanin content of XH and FL grapes subjected to a high-temperature (HT) treatment group (40 °C) decreased significantly as the HT treatment continued, but showed an upward trend with fruit development. However, the concentration of procyanidins increased significantly following HT treatment but decreased with fruit development. Nonetheless, FL grapes showed some resistance to the HT condition, producing anthocyanin content at ripeness comparable to the control group, demonstrating a greater adaptability to HT conditions than XH grapes. Based on the CIRG index, at stage S4, the fruit of FL was classified as dark red, while XH was classified as blue-black in the control group. Anthocyanin-targeted metabonomics identified eight different types of anthocyanins accumulating in the peels of XH and FL grapes during ripening, including cyanidins, delphinidins, malvidins, pelargonidins, peonidins, petunidins, procyanidins, and flavonoids. Malvidins were the most abundant in the two grape varieties, with malvidin-3-O-glucoside being more sensitive to high temperatures. HT treatment also down-regulated the expression of structural genes and regulators involved in the anthocyanin synthesis pathways. We used the WGCNA method to identify two modules that were significantly correlated with total anthocyanin and procyanidin contents. Among them, MYBCS1, bHLH137, WRKY65, WRKY75, MYB113-like, bZIP44, and GST3 were predicted to be involved in grape anthocyanin biosynthesis. In conclusion, this study conducted in-depth research on the HT inhibition of the biosynthesis of anthocyanins in XH and FL grapes, for reference.

Tithonia diversifolia (Asteraceae) as a reservoir of natural enemies to promote pest control and improve development of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) in open conditions

ABSTRACT Tithonia diversifolia has the potential for use as a reservoir for entomophages in pest control, as it attracts and preserves natural enemies before migrating to the target crop, where a high incidence of pests occurs. For example, in tomato crop production one of the limiting factors, under field condition, is the incidence of phytophagous insects. We determined the effects of Tithonia diversifolia on species assemblage structure of natural enemies and pest insects (abundance and diversity), plant growth (leaf area, stem length and diameter, number of leaves, flowers and fruits, and fruits weight/per plant), plant defense (leaf thickness and hardness) and fruit colouration on tomato plants in open conditions. Through direct and indirect samplings, a total of 456 insects were collected, comprising 76 natural enemies, 269 pests and 111 belonging other guilds. Length, stem diameter, number of flowers, leaf thickness, and hardness increased, while the number of leaves decreased. T. diversifolia plants increased natural enemies but not pest abundance in tomato plants, demonstrating that this plant can alter the structure of the insect community associated with tomato.

Comparative fruit morphology of nine Psittacanthus Mart. (Santalales: Loranthaceae) mistletoe species occurring in Mexico

The genus Psittacanthus is distributed from Mexico to Argentina and contains c. 110 species. The large, lipid-rich, one-seeded fruits of Psittacanthus species frequently depend on frugivorous birds for seed dispersal; however, fruit morphology of Psittacanthus (Loranthaceae) mistletoes remain poorly studied. In this study we describe the fruit morphology of nine Psittacanthus species. Fruits were collected from the study sites in which mistletoe plants were inhabiting contrasting habitats and host tree species. The morphological characteristics of fruits by species were described and compared with the use of inclusion and staining techniques and light microscopy. Our results show that fruit size varies among species, with P. macrantherus having the largest fruits. Most fruits have an ellipsoid to ovoid shape, color of fruits transits from green when immature to red or purple before ripening to blackish or purplish black, with color variations observed in different species, and the cupular pedicel length varying among species. Fruit sections indicate the following parts: exocarp, viscin layer, seed coat and a dicotylar to polycotylar embryo, with P. schiedeanus having the highest cotyledon count. No endosperm is present in the studied species. Our results provide valuable information for further species comparisons regarding the lack of endosperm and polycotylar embryo. Additionally, interspecific variation in cotyledon number and seed coat highlights distinct processes, including the potential effects of environmental differences.

Quality Parameters of Plum Orchard Subjected to Conventional and Ecological Management Systems in Temperate Production Area

Environmental protection, global food security, and nutritional quality are critical issues for worldwide sustainable development. Plums (Prunus domestica L.), well-known for their rich nutritional content and distinct phytochemical profile, have received increased attention due to their potential health benefits. The present study evaluates the ecological and conventional management systems of quality parameters in three plum varieties—Tuleu Gras, Record, and Centenar—and establishes suitable practices to improve fruit quality and yields. The fruit morphometric features (color, firmness, soluble solid content, titratable acidity, and total sugar) were analyzed during their raw fruit state, while different fruit-sample extracts were assessed for phytochemical compounds and heavy metal concentrations, specifically, zinc, copper, nickel, and cadmium. The results show a wide variability in the examined characteristics among management practices that differentially accumulated throughout the ripening phase and significantly influenced the nutritional value of the plum fruit. The application of an ecological management practice yielded small plum fruits (38 g) and maintained a more consistent and vigorous fruit color compared with the conventional system (83 g). Moreover, ecological plums have higher antioxidant activities, total polyphenols, and flavonoids (21.70–25.54 µM Trolox/g of dw, 3.89–7.76 mg GAE/ g of dw, and 1.45–3.65 mg CE/g of dw, respectively). Among the content of metals in the plum fruit, copper exhibited the highest concentrations (0.83–1.21 mg/kg), while cadmium was detected at the lowest levels (0.006–0.009 mg/kg). The potential health implications of heavy metals, by calculating their estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), and hazard index (HI), for both adults and children were also analyzed. The EDI values of accumulated elements in the plum fruits followed the order of Cu &gt; Zn &gt; Ni &gt; Cd with no concern for human health (THQ and HI &lt; 1). According to this study’s findings, fruit quality parameters are significantly higher in ecological plums, providing a compelling argument for adopting sustainable agricultural practices. These results highlight the importance of selecting sustainable agricultural practices, not only to safeguard the environment but also to ensure high-quality products suitable for human consumption.

Quantitative Proteomics Analysis of ABA- and GA3-Treated Malbec Berries Reveals Insights into H2O2 Scavenging and Anthocyanin Dynamics.

Abscisic acid (ABA) and gibberellic acid (GA3) are regulators of fruit color and sugar levels, and the application of these hormones is a common practice in commercial vineyards dedicated to the production of table grapes. However, the effects of exogenous ABA and GA3 on wine cultivars remain unclear. We investigated the impact of ABA and GA3 application on Malbec grapevine berries across three developmental stages. We found similar patterns of berry total anthocyanin accumulation induced by both treatments, closely associated with berry H2O2 levels. Quantitative proteomics from berry skins revealed that ABA and GA3 positively modulated antioxidant defense proteins, mitigating H2O2. Consequently, proteins involved in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis were downregulated, leading to decreased anthocyanin content at the almost ripe stage, particularly petunidin-3-G and peonidin-3-G. Additionally, we noted increased levels of the non-anthocyanins E-viniferin and quercetin in the treated berries, which may enhance H2O2 scavenging at the almost ripe stage. Using a linear mixed-effects model, we found statistical significance for fixed effects including the berry H2O2 and sugar contents, demonstrating their roles in anthocyanin accumulation. In conclusion, our findings suggest a common molecular mechanism by which ABA and GA3 influence berry H2O2 content, ultimately impacting anthocyanin dynamics during ripening.

Combining transcriptomics and HPLC to uncover variations in quality formation between ‘Benihoppe’ and ‘Fenyu No.1’ strawberries

‘Benihoppe’ and ‘Fenyu No.1’ are representative varieties of red and pink strawberries in China, possess distinct hue and flavor profiles. This study analyzed the underlying biochemical and molecular differences of two varieties utilizing transcriptomics and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Ripening ‘Benihoppe’ fruits accumulated more sucrose and pelargonin-3-glucoside (P3G) with a little cyanidin and higher firmness. Whereas ripening ‘Fenyu No.1’ fruits contained more fructose, glucose, malic acid and ascorbic acid (AsA), but less P3G and citric acid. Moreover, genotype significantly influenced phenolic compounds contents in strawberries. Transcriptome analysis revealed that pectin degradation (PL, PG, PE), sucrose synthesis (CWINV, SUS, TPS) and citric acid metabolism (α-OGDH, ICDH, GAD, GS, GDH, PEPCK, AST) were weakened in ‘Benihoppe’ fruit. In contrast, the synthesis of sucrose (CWINH, SPS), citric acid (CS, PEPC), anthocyanin (F3H, F3′H, F3′5′H, DFR, UFGT and ANS), and citric acid transport (V-ATPase) was enhanced. In ‘Fenyu No.1’ fruit, the degradation of sucrose, citric acid, and pectin was enhanced, along with the synthesis of malic acid (ME) and ascorbic acid (PMM, MDHAR and GaLUR). However, anthocyanins synthesis, glucose metabolism (HK, G6PI, PFK, G6PDH, PGK, PGM, ENO, PK), fructose metabolism (FK), citric acid synthesis and transport, and AsA degradation (AO, APX) were relatively weak. RT-qPCR results corroborated the transcriptome data. In conclusion, this study revealed the distinctions and characteristics of strawberries with different fruit colors regarding texture, flavor and color formation processes. These findings offer valuable insights for regulating metabolic pathways and identifying key candidate genes to improve strawberry quality.

Irregular green netting of eggplant fruit peel: a domestication trait controlled by SmGLK2 with potential for fruit colour diversification.

The distribution of chlorophylls in eggplant (Solanum melongena) peel exhibits either a uniform pattern or an irregular green netting. The latter, manifested as a gradient of dark green netting intensified in the proximal part of the fruit on a pale green background, is common in wild relatives and some eggplant landraces. Despite the selection of uniform chlorophylls during domestication, the netting pattern contributes to a greater diversity of fruit colours. Here, we have used over 2,300 individuals from different populations, including a multi-parental MAGIC population for candidate genomic region identification, an F2 population for BSA-Seq, and advanced backcrosses for edges-to-core fine-mapping, to identify SmGLK2 gene as responsible for the irregular netting in eggplant fruits. We have also analysed the gene sequence of 178 S. melongena accessions and 22 wild relative species for tracing the evolutionary changes that the gene has undergone during domestication. Three different mutations were identified leading to the absence of netting. The main causative indel induces a premature stop codon disrupting the protein conformation and function, which was confirmed by western blotting analysis and confocal microscopy observations. SmGLK2 has a major role in regulating chlorophyll biosynthesis in eggplant fruit peel.

Monitoring Fruit Growth and Development in Apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) through Gene Expression Analysis.

The main objective of this study was to monitor apricot development and ripening through gene expression analysis of key candidate genes using the RT-qPCR technique. Eight apricot cultivars were selected to analyze phenological and genetic patterns from pre-ripening stages through to postharvest. In addition, 19 selected genes were analyzed in the contrasting cultivars 'Cebas Red' and 'Rojo Pasión' in different stages (two preharvest stages S1 and S2, one harvest stage S3, and two postharvest stages S4 and S5). This pool of genes included genes related to fruit growth and ripening, genes associated with fruit color, and genes linked to the fruit's nutraceutical aspects. Among the studied genes, Polygalacturonase (PG), Pectin methylesterase (PME), Aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate synthase (ACS), and Myo-inositol-1-phosphate synthase (INO1) were directly related to fruit maturation and quality. Significant differential expression was observed between the cultivars, which correlated with variations in firmness, shelf life, and sensory characteristics of the apricots. 'Rojo Pasión' displayed high levels of PG, associated with rapid maturation and shorter postharvest shelf life, whereas 'Cebas Red' exhibited lower levels of this gene, resulting in greater firmness and extended shelf life. Genes CCD4, CRTZ, and ZDS, related to carotenoids, showed varied expression patterns during growth and postharvest stages, with higher levels in 'Rojo Pasión'. On the other hand, Sucrose synthase (SUSY) and Lipoxygenase (LOX2) were prominent during the postharvest and growth stages, respectively. Additionally, GDP-L-galactose phosphorylase (VTC2_5) was linked to better postharvest performance. This research provides valuable insights for future breeding initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality and sustainability of apricot cultivation.

Effects of Capulin (C. xalapensis) on the Microbiological, Physicochemical and Sensory Properties of Yogurt

The capulin fruit (Conostegia xalapensis) is a seasonal wild berry. The objective of this study was to evaluate the sensory acceptance and physicochemical characteristics of yogurt with the incorporation of capulin at different concentrations (2, 4, and 6%). The fruits were dehydrated at three different temperatures (40 °C, 50 °C, and 60 °C), and flour was prepared as raw material for microbiological and physicochemical characterization. The moisture (9.05%), ash (4.24%), fat (3.7%), carbohydrates (7.2%), protein (6.9%), and fiber (13.1%) were determined. The pH, viscosity, syneresis, water holding capacity, and microbial counts were determined. The acceptability of yogurt was determined through a sensory evaluation with 100 semi-trained judges using a 9-point hedonic test. The results showed a significant difference between the yogurt containing 4 and 6% capulin fruit and the yogurt with the greatest acceptability containing 2% capulin fruit. The pH was within the range of values recommended for commercial yogurt. Likewise, the proximate of capulin fruit was higher than those reported by other authors who have conducted studies with blueberries or wild peas, making capulin jelly an efficient supplement to naturally color fruit yogurt. The incorporation of capulin-based jelly, as we discovered, holds promise as a potential food alternative and a viable substitute for artificial coloring. This finding could have significant implications for the food industry, offering a natural and healthier option.

Efecto de bioestimulantes sobre la calidad del fruto de manzana Golden Glory en Chihuahua, México

The cultivation of apple (Malus domestica (Borkh.) Borkh.) holds significant global importance due to their flavor and nutritional value. In Mexico, Chihuahua leads in production, yet the response of the Golden Glory variety to biostimulants remains unstudied. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of biostimulants on fruit quality in Golden Glory apple. Conducted in Namiquipa, Chihuahua, during the 2023 season, the study employed randomized experimental design with treatments (amino acids, algae, fulvic acids, and a control) spraying weekly from flowering to near harvest. Fruit characteristics were evaluated 90 days post-initial treatment. Amino acids significantly improve fruit weight (27.98 %), diameters (8.41 % polar and 9.28 % equatorial), color (178.8 %), and total soluble solids (TSS;5.72 %), while reducing malic acid content and enhancing TSS/AT ratio by 23.21 %, with no impact firmness. Fruit quality met marketing standards. Seaweed and fulvic acids treatment showed no significant improvement parameters. These results underscore amino acids ‘efficacy in enhancing 'Golden Glory' apples quality. Keywords: amino acids, seaweed, fulvic acids, Malus domestica Borkh

Biostimulant Effects of Algae Species, Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi, and Their Combinations on Yield and Quality of Yellow Tomato Landrace Under Different Crop Cycles

Recent agricultural research has prioritized the development of environmentally friendly management strategies to ensure food security, among which the application of biostimulants such as brown algae extracts, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), and their combination are included. The experimental protocol was based on the factorial combination of two planting times (4 May and 1 June) and seven biostimulant treatments (three brown algae species, Cystoseria tamariscifolia—C.t.; Fucus vesiculosus—F.v.; Padina pavonica—P.p.; arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi—AMF; C.t. + AMF; F.v. + AMF; P.p. + AMF) plus an untreated control. The earlier transplant resulted in a higher yield, due to the higher number of fruits per plant, and a higher plant fresh and dry biomass. The treatments with P.p. and F.v. extracts and the combination P.p. + AMF led to the highest yields (56.7 t ha−1), mainly due to the highest fruit number per plant. The earlier planting time led to higher values of dry residue, soluble solids, firmness, and colour component ‘a’. The highest values of fruit dry residue were recorded under the F.v. and P.p. extracts, and the combinations F.v. + AMF and P.p. + AMF, the highest soluble solid content with P.p. treatment, and firmness under P.p. + AMF. The highest levels of ‘L’ and ‘a’ fruit colour components were obtained under the P.p. extract treatment, of ‘b’ upon the application of P.p. and F.v. extract, and AMF + P.p. and AMF + F.v. The later planting time led to significantly higher values of the antioxidant parameters, as did the application of the P.p. extract and P.p. + AMF. CAT activity was more intense corresponding to the later tomato crop cycle, P.p. extract, and AMF + P.p. Overall, our study highlights the potential of biostimulants, particularly brown algae extracts and their combination with AMF, to improve tomato yield, antioxidant properties, and biochemical activities.

Impact of Dropping on Postharvest Physiology of Tomato Fruits Harvested at Green and Red Ripeness Stages.

Dropping during transportation is a critical issue for tomato fruits, as it triggers ethylene production and affects quality parameters, leading to lower quality and a reduced storage life. Thus, this study was conducted to assess the physiological alterations in tomato fruits subjected to dropping. This study involved tomatoes harvested at green and red stages, subjected to the following five dropping treatments: 0 cm, 10 cm, 30 cm, 50 cm, and 100 cm. The results revealed that dropping from 100 cm induced the highest ethylene production, particularly in green fruits, where production began within one hour and peaked within 48 h. Red fruits exhibited a dose-dependent response to mechanical stress, with a notable decrease in ethylene production starting from the second week post-dropping, suggesting a regulatory mechanism. CO2 production peaked at 350.1 µL g-1 h-1 in green fruits and 338.2 µL g-1 h-1 in red fruits one day after dropping from 100 cm. Dropping also significantly influenced fruit color, firmness, electrolyte leakage, and vitamin C content. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed distinct changes in metabolite profiles, with methionine and ACC (1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate), key ethylene precursors, increasing in response to dropping, particularly in red fruits. These findings underscore the critical role of mechanical stress in modulating fruit physiology, with implications for post-harvest handling practices aimed at enhancing fruit quality and shelf life.

Evidence for adaptation of colourful truffle-like fungi for birds in Aotearoa-New Zealand

Propagule dispersal is a crucial aspect of the survival and reproduction of sessile organisms, such as plants and fungi. As such, the colours of fleshy fruits serve as a visual cue for animal dispersers. However, little is known about how, or whether, specific traits of fungal fruiting bodies, such as colour or shape, attract animal dispersers, and additionally the identities of fungal dispersers are poorly understood. Globally, most truffle-like fungi are dull-coloured, subterranean, and likely have scents that are attractive to mammalian dispersers. In Aotearoa-New Zealand, however, brightly coloured truffle-like fungi that emerge from the forest floor have seemingly proliferated. This proliferation has prompted the hypothesis that they are adapted to dispersal by a bird-dominated fauna. In our study, we used the literature and citizen science data (GBIF) to explore whether colourful species occur at a higher proportion of the total truffle-like fungi flora in Aotearoa-New Zealand than elsewhere in the world. In addition, we tested for a relationship between biotic factors (avian frugivory and forest cover) and abiotic factors (precipitation, radiation, and temperature) and the prevalence of brightly coloured truffle-like fungi across the world. The most colourful truffle-like fungi are in three defined regions: Australia, South and Central America and the Caribbean, and Aotearoa-NZ. Potential dispersers and the environment both relate to the distribution of truffle-like fungi: we found that increasing levels of frugivory were associated with higher proportions of colourful truffle-like fungi. This finding provides new insights into drivers of certain fungal traits, and their interactions between birds and fungi. Unique ecosystems, such as Aotearoa-NZ’s bird-dominated biota, provide fascinating opportunities to explore how plants and fungi interact with the sensory systems of animals.