Pepper Varieties Research Articles

Mitigation of Flood Stress in Mazamort Pepper Variety through Manganese Application

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of Mn application on the resistance of pepper plants exposed to flood stress. The study was conducted in a climate-controlled room at Siirt University, utilizing the Mazamort three-lobed pepper variety as plant material. In the climate chamber (19 m²), conditions were established at 24±1°C during the day and 18±1°C at night, with a light/dark photoperiod of 16/8 hours. The growing medium consisted of a 2:1 (v) mixture of peat and perlite. Four treatment groups were established: control, flood stress, 2.5 mg/L manganese (Mn), and flood stress combined with 2.5 mg/L Mn. Sixty-day-old Mazamort pepper plants were subjected to continuous flooding and manganese application at each watering. The duration of flood stress was set at 0 days (control) and 10 days. The experiment was designed using a randomized complete block design with three replications, each containing 10 plants. Parameters evaluated at the end of the study included visual assessment, plant height, stem diameter, leaf number, leaf fresh and dry weight, leaf moisture content, root fresh and dry weight, root moisture content, chlorophyll content (SPAD value), ion leakage, relative water content (RWC), and turgor loss. The highest plant height was observed in the 2.5 mg/L manganese treatment (45.82 cm), while the greatest stem diameter was recorded in the control group. The highest leaf number (30.60) and SPAD value (35.34) were also noted in the control group. RWC was highest at 96.90% in the 2.5 mg/L manganese treatment. The maximum turgor loss was 5.606% in the control group, and the highest ion leakage (17.880%) was observed in the 2.5 mg/L manganese treatment. It was concluded that manganese application mitigated the negative effects of flood stress on various parameters; however, it did not fully restore the values to control group levels.

Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antiviral Activity, and Mechanisms of Action of Plant Polyphenols

This review describes the enhanced classification of polyphenols into flavonoids, lignans, phenolic acids, stilbenes, and tannins. Its focus is the natural sources of polyphenols and an in-depth discussion of their antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral activity. Besides a broad literature overview, this paper contains authors’ experimental data according to some daily consumed vegetables such as tomatoes, different varieties of onion, garlic, parsley, and cayenne pepper and the probable relation of these activities to polyphenols. The isolation of polyphenols via conventional and ultrasonic, pressurized liquids and pulse-field extractions, as well as their methods for detection and determination, are interpreted as well. The main mechanisms by which polyphenols inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, such as protein synthesis, cell membrane destabilization, and ROS production induction, are in focus. Data on polyphenol concentrations and their respective MIC or the inhibition zone diameters of different bacterial and fungal species and suppressing viral replication are depicted. The toxicity of polyphenols in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo towards microorganisms and human/animal cells, and the safety of the polyphenols applied in clinical and industrial applications are expanded. This review also characterizes the antimicrobial effects of some chemically synthesized polyphenol derivatives. Biotechnological advances are also reported, especially the entrapment of polyphenols in biocompatible nanoparticles to enhance their bioavailability and efficacy. Polyphenols are promising for exploring molecules’ novel antimicrobial substances and paving the path for effective novel antimicrobial agents’ discovery, taking into consideration their positives and negatives.

Integrating transcriptome and metabolome to explore the formation of fruit aroma in different types of pepper

The fruity aroma of capsicum is a crucial aspect of its flavor profile, and it is imperative to thoroughly investigate the metabolic and genetic foundations underlying its formation. In this study, 7 samples from 5 pepper varieties were used as test materials, and the detection of volatile organic compounds was carried out by SPME-GC-MS/MS. The transcriptome sequencing work was completed using the Illumina platform, and further completed the difference analysis and correlation analysis. 766 volatile organic compounds were detected, 136.6 Gb of clean data were obtained, and a significant difference was found in metabolites and gene expression among different samples. Through further difference analysis, it was found that the contents of 50 metabolites in DC351 (55 DAP) and DC612 with aromatic fruits were significantly higher than those of other varieties; additionally, the rOAV value of 8 metabolites exceeded 1. And ester and terpene metabolites were the key metabolites of pepper fruit aroma. 20 modules have achieved gene enrichment analysis. Further analysis revealed key genes involved in the lipoxygenase and MEP pathways. For example, genes such as alcohol dehydrogenase (Capana06g000848) were closely related to the content of lipid metabolites such as acetic acid nonyl ester, while genes such as 1-deoxy-D-xylulose-5-phosphate reductase (Capana03g000964) were closely related to the content of terpenoid metabolites such as 1- (2,6,6-trimethyl-1,3-cyclohexan-1-yl) - and (E) -. In conclusion, our research is expected to uncover key metabolites and genes related to the aroma of pepper fruits, which is of great significance for trait improvement and genetic research.

Study of the correlation between the capsaicin content and the frequency of consumption of five varieties of peppers consumed in the city of Man, Ivory Coast

Chili pepper is used in the culinary field as a flavor enhancer. In the city of Man, chili is very popular because the local sauces which are mostly sticky would be difficult to consume without the spicy flavor of chili. This hot pepper flavor comes from capsaicin (8-Methyl-N-vanillyl-6-nonenamide). The aim of this study is to assess the correlation between the capsaicin content and the frequency of consumption of five varieties of peppers consumed in the city of Man, Ivory Coast. For this study, the investigation focused on 5 neighborhoods in the city of Man. A total of 250 households were surveyed. After the consumption frequency survey, the capsaicin content of the 5 varieties of peppers was determined. The most consumed varieties of peppers belong to the genus Capscicum annuum. These are the varieties Capscicum annuum yellow and Capsicum annuum Antillean with respective capsaicin contents of 812.26 ± 0.28 µg/ml and 703.32 ± 0.12 µg/ml. This study established that in the city of Man, consumption frequencies evolve proportionally to the capsaicin content of chili peppers.

VIS/NIR Spectroscopy as a Non-Destructive Method for Evaluation of Quality Parameters of Three Bell Pepper Varieties Based on Soft Computing Methods

Spectroscopic analysis was employed to evaluate the quality of three bell pepper varieties within the 350–1150 nm wavelength range. Quality parameters such as firmness, pH, soluble solids content, titratable acids, vitamin C, total phenols, and anthocyanins were measured. To enhance data reliability, principal component analysis (PCA) was used to identify and remove outliers. Raw spectral data were initially modeled using partial least squares regression (PLSR). To optimize wavelength selection, support vector machines (SVMs) were combined with genetic algorithms (GAs), particle swarm optimization (PSO), ant colony optimization (ACO), and imperial competitive algorithm (ICA). The most effective wavelength selection method was subsequently used for further analysis. Three modeling techniques—PLSR, multiple linear regression (MLR), and artificial neural networks (ANNs)—were applied to the selected wavelengths. PLSR analysis of raw data yielded a maximum R2 value of 0.98 for red pepper pH, while the lowest R2 (0.58) was observed for total phenols in yellow peppers. SVM-PSO was determined to be the optimal wavelength selection algorithm based on ratio of performance to deviation (RPD), root mean square error (RMSE), and correlation values. An average of 15 effective wavelengths were identified using this combined approach. Model performance was evaluated using root mean square error of cross-validation and coefficient of determination (R2). ANN consistently outperformed MLR and PLSR in predicting firmness, pH, soluble solids content, titratable acids, vitamin C, total phenols, and anthocyanins for all three varieties. R2 values for the ANN model ranged from 0.94 to 1.00, demonstrating its superior predictive capability. Based on these results, ANN is recommended as the most suitable method for evaluating the quality parameters of bell peppers using spectroscopic data.

Biochemical composition of Armenian chili pepper varieties: insights for functional food applications

Background: Capsicum annuum L. (pepper) is economically significant in many countries, including Armenia, where it helps conserve the vegetable gene pool and supports public health. Its rich biochemical composition makes it a key dietary component, particularly for its antioxidant properties, which combat free radicals. The biochemical makeup of peppers vary by genotype and maturity, leading breeders to develop varieties with both agronomic and nutritional benefits. Chili peppers are especially valued for their high carotene and ascorbic acid content, earning them the title of "multi vitamin concentrate," along with other vitamins and bioactive compounds that enhance their health benefits. Objective: This study examines the biochemical profiles of various Armenian chili pepper varieties, highlighting their nutritional value and potential in agricultural systems. By analysing these unique varieties, the research aims to advance knowledge of their health benefits and promote sustainable farming practices. Methods: The study examined six locally bred chili pepper varieties—'Artsiv', 'Punj', 'Kon', 'Deghin kakach', 'Oranj kakach', and 'Kaytsak'. Ascorbic acid, carotenoids, and phenols were measured at both the technical and biological ripening stages using spectrophotometry. Dry matter was determined by the thermogravimetric method, and sugar content by Bertrand’s method. Pungency was assessed using the Scoville heat units’ method, and statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA. Results: The study of six Armenian chili pepper varieties showed differences in fruit shape, color, ripening times, and productivity. 'Deghin kakach', 'Oranj kakach', and 'Kon' produce conical fruits that change to yellow, orange, and red, respectively, while 'Punj', 'Kaytsak', and 'Artsiv' have elongated fruits that ripen red. Early varieties like 'Punj', 'Artsiv', and 'Kaytsak' mature 11–17 days earlier. 'Oranj kakach' was the most productive (19.4 t/ha), while 'Kaytsak' had the lowest yield. 'Artsiv', 'Punj', and 'Kaytsak' were hot, while the others were moderately hot. Carotenoid content rose during ripening, ascorbic acid ranged from 115.0 to 175.6 mg/100 g, with 'Punj' highest, and total phenolics peaked in 'Deghin kakach'. Conclusion: Armenian chili pepper varieties are rich in bioactive compounds—phenols, ascorbic acid, carotenoids, and capsaicin— suitable for functional foods. During ripening, carotenoids increased by up to 583.64%, ascorbic acid by 97.4%, and phenols by 96.43%. ‘Punj’ had the highest ascorbic acid, ‘Oranj kakach’ the most carotenoids, and ‘Deghin kakach’ the most phenols, highlighting the potential of ripening to boost the health benefits of these peppers. Keywords: hot pepper, vitamin C, carotenoids, phenols, phenological stages, productivity

Evaluating chili pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) varieties in floating agriculture systems: a climate-smart agriculture approach for Bangladesh’s wetlands

ABSTRACT In the waterlogged regions of Bangladesh, climate change exacerbates agricultural challenges, particularly for sensitive crops like chili pepper (Capsicum annuum L.). This two-season study evaluated the growth and development of eight chili pepper varieties (four cultivated in the summer and four in the winter) in floating beds and traditional soil-based farming systems. Morphological traits, root development, and reproductive traits of the chili plants were evaluated. The results showed that floating beds significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced shoot morphology, root development, and reproductive traits during the winter season but had no effect in the summer season. Floating beds provided better moisture retention, nutrient availability, and pH stability, contributing to increased shoot and root growth and ultimately leading to superior reproductive traits. Although the effects of variety were less pronounced, significant differences in specific traits were observed within the seasons. Among the summer varieties, V2 (BARI Morich-2) performed best in the soil bed for plant height, fruit number, and yield, while V3 (“Anol-1701”) performed best in floating beds. In the winter, V7 (“Jhilik”) exhibited superior performance in floating beds, particularly for reproductive traits. The winter variety V7 achieved the highest production under floating conditions, with 3.2067 kg m–2, representing a 655.3% increase over soil-based beds, while the summer variety V3 yielded 0.4321 kg m–2, a 53.5% increase. Additionally, a significant interaction between bed type and variety was observed for the number of fruits and yield in summer, and leaf area in winter, indicating the synergistic effects of these factors on chili growth.

Residue analysis of premix formulation of fipronil and imidacloprid and its metabolites in hot pepper (Capsicum annum)

A field experiment was conducted during 2018–19 and 2019–20 at Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana to assess the dissipation pattern of a ready mix formulation i.e. fipronil and imidacloprid along with their metabolites in fruits of hot pepper (Capsicum annum L.). The Hot pepper variety Kranti was used for the study. Quantitative analysis was done on gas liquid chromatography (GLC) and high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) for fipronil and imidacloprid with their metabolites, respectively. At the suggested dose, fipronil residues were lower than 0.01 mg/kg in the studied years. However, in double doses, the total residues of fipronil were detected on the 5th (0.071 mg/kg) and 3rd (0.043 mg/kg) day for the 1st and 2nd year following drench application. Imidacloprid was detected only in the subsequent year’s trial in double doses. Residual leftovers of imidacloprid metabolite (6- CNA) were lower than 0.01 mg/kg (LOQ). No residual leftovers were present in fully ripened red chilli and harvest time samples of soil.

Catiknifap, new native variety of Xcat ik pepper (Capsicum annuum L.)

O Objective: To describe the morphological and agronomic characteristics of Catiknifap, a native variety of the Xcat ik pepper. Design/Methodology/Approach: Catiknifap was formed by mass selection method from a P108 accession collected in 2013 in Muna, Yucatan. Characterization and yield trails were carried out in greenhouse during three cycles from 2021 to 2022. Forty-five characteristics were evaluated based on UPOV guidelines. Results: Catiknifap is an early-ripening variety. Its fruits ripen between 77 and 81 days after transplanting. Its main morphological characteristic is the rounded shape at the junction with the peduncle. The yield depends on the growing season and ranges from 32.3 to 42.3 t ha-1. Study Limitations/Implications: Assays were carried out in greenhouses. Pests and diseases may cause differences in open field yield. Findings/Conclusions: Catiknifap is the first morphologically characterized variety of Xcat ik pepper. The fruits of this homogenous and stable variety have a high yield potential in Yucatan.

Morphological Characterization of Some Capia Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) Genotypes

Capsicum annuum (Capia), a member of the Solanaceae family, has a rich genetic diversity in fruit and plant traits. To select Capia pepper genotypes with desirable morphological traits for the development of new hybrid capia pepper varieties, this study aimed to characterize genetic accessions generated from local populations, and standard and hybrid cultivars using morphological characters. One hundred and twelve genotypes were identified using 15 morphological traits (11 qualitative and 4 quantitative) and quantitative traits were measured while qualitative traits were observed. Cluster and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied to determine the relationship between the lines identified as a result of single plant selection. As a result of the cluster analysis, a dendrogram was prepared to evaluate the morphological similarity between the lines, and nineteen groups were identified based on 15 variables. In Principal Component Analysis, six PC axes explained 66.2% of the total variation. As a result of the study, high morphological variability was observed among pepper lines. This evaluation of plant trait variability can assist geneticists and breeders in identifying populations with desirable characteristics for inclusion in pepper breeding programs.

Genetic Variation Study of Several Romanian Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) Varieties Revealed by Molecular Markers and Whole Genome Resequencing.

Numerous varieties of Capsicum annuum L. with multiple valuable traits, such as adaptation to biotic and abiotic stress factors, can be found in south-east Romania, well known for vegetable cultivation and an important area of biodiversity conservation. To obtain useful information about sustainable agriculture, management, and conservation of local pepper varieties, we analyzed the genetic diversity and conducted deep molecular characterization using whole genome resequencing (WGS) for variant/mutation detection. The pepper varieties used in the present study were registered by VRDS in the ISTIS catalog between 1974 and 2019 and maintained in conservative selection; however, no studies have been published yet using WGS analysis in order to characterize this specific germplasm. The genome sequences, annotation, and alignments provided in this study offer essential resources for genomic research as well as for future breeding efforts using the C. annuum local varieties.

The landscape of sequence variations between resistant and susceptible hot peppers to predict functional candidate genes against bacterial wilt disease

BackgroundBacterial wilt (BW), caused by Ralstonia solanacearum (Ral), results in substantial yield losses in pepper crops. Developing resistant pepper varieties through breeding is the most effective strategy for managing BW. To achieve this, a thorough understanding of the genetic information connected with resistance traits is essential. Despite identifying three major QTLs for bacterial wilt resistance in pepper, Bw1 on chromosome 8, qRRs-10.1 on chromosome 10, and pBWR-1 on chromosome 1, the genetic information of related BW pepper varieties has not been sufficiently studied. Here, we resequenced two pepper inbred lines, C. annuum ‘MC4’ (resistant) and C. annuum ‘Subicho’ (susceptible), and analyzed genomic variations through SNPs and Indels to identify candidate genes for BW resistance.ResultsAn average of 139.5 Gb was generated among the two cultivars, with coverage ranging from 44.94X to 46.13X. A total of 8,815,889 SNPs was obtained between ‘MC4’ and ‘Subicho’. Among them, 31,190 (0.35%) were non-synonymous SNPs (nsSNPs) corresponding to 10,926 genes, and these genes were assigned to 142 Gene Ontology (GO) terms across the two cultivars. We focused on three known BW QTL regions by identifying genes with sequence variants through gene set enrichment analysis and securing those belonging to high significant GO terms. Additionally, we found 310 NLR genes with nsSNP variants between ‘MC4’ (R) and ‘Subicho’ (S) within these regions. Also, we performed an Indel analysis on these genes. By integrating all this data, we identified eight candidate BW resistance genes, including two NLR genes with nsSNPs variations in qRRs-10.1 on chromosome 10.ConclusionWe identified genomic variations in the form of SNPs and Indels by re-sequencing two pepper cultivars with contrasting traits for bacterial wilt. Specifically, the four genes associated with pBWR-1 and Bw1 that exhibit both nsSNP and Indel variations simultaneously in ‘Subicho’, along with the two NLR genes linked to qRRs-10.1, which are known for their direct involvement in immune responses, are identified as most likely BW resistance genes. These variants in leading candidate genes associated with BW resistance can be used as important markers for breeding pepper varieties.

Physiological and Genetic Aspects of Resistance to Abiotic Stresses in Capsicum Species.

Abiotic stress is one of the key factors harming global agriculture today, seriously affecting the growth and yield of vegetables. Pepper is the most widely grown vegetable in the world, with both high nutritional and economic values. Currently, the increase in global extreme weather events has heightened the frequency of abiotic stresses, such as drought, high and low temperatures, waterlogging, and high salt levels, which impairs pepper growth and development, leading to its reduced yield and quality. In this review, we summarize the research progress on the responses of pepper to abiotic stress in recent years in terms of physiology, biochemistry, molecular level, and mitigation measures. We then explore the existing problems and propose future research directions. This work provides a reference for the cultivation and development of new pepper varieties resistant to abiotic stress.

Evaluation of Yield and Quality Characteristics of Some Drying Red Pepper Lines in Antakya Conditions

This study aimed to evaluate the yield and quality performance of 12 S4-generation genotypes and 4 registered pepper varieties, developed through selection from the Kahramanmaraş pepper population by the East Mediterranean Transitional Zone Agricultural Research Institute, under the conditions of Antakya. The plant materials used were the genotypes 83, 331, 368, 373, 361, 378, 439, 449, 454, 472, 521, and 69, along with the varieties Sena, Dila, Bozok, and Yesemek. The results revealed that the highest fresh yield was obtained from genotype 83 with 1106 g plant-1, while the highest dry yield was recorded in genotype 472 with 270 g plant-1. The genotype 361 stood out with a total soluble solid content (SSC) of 13.30%, and the highest drying efficiency was observed in genotype 454 at 32.5%. In terms of fruit number, genotype 439 had the highest value with 127.33 fruits plant-1, while genotype 472 showed the highest fruit weight of 10.60 g fruit-1 and genotype 449 had the longest fruit length at 7.82 cm. The highest seed count was observed in genotype 378 with 347 seeds fruit-1, while Dila had the largest fruit width at 23.65 mm. According to the capsaicinoid (pungency) analysis, genotype 472 exhibited the highest pungency level with 147,483 scoville heat units (SHU), highlighting it as a notable quality trait. Furthermore, the lowest fruit flesh thickness was recorded in genotype 378 with 0.75 mm, and the highest 1000-seed weight was observed in genotype 373 with 6.50 g. Overall, considering the key criteria for dried pepper production, particularly dry yield and pungency, genotype 472 demonstrated superior performance due to its high dry yield and pungency levels. These findings suggest that the Antakya region is well-suited for the cultivation of high-yielding and high-quality pepper lines. Additionally, these genotypes hold significant potential for commercial production.

Validating the Vegetable Variety Navigator Decision-support Tool Using Recent On-farm Variety Trial Data

Local variety trial data are necessary for informing growers how a specific variety might perform on their farm but there is a growing deficiency in these data, particularly for specialty crops. To address this issue, an online decision-support tool named the Vegetable Variety Navigator (VVN) was developed in 2020 to compile, analyze, and visually communicate publicly available broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica), cucumber (Cucumis sativus), and sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum) variety trial data. To validate the accuracy and predictive potential of the VVN, we conducted 16 on-farm variety trials for broccoli, cucumber, and sweet pepper between 2020 and 2022. Yield of each variety in a trial was compared with the mean of all other varieties in the same trial to calculate a mean relative yield (MRY). The difference between observed relative yield in the field and predicted relative yield from the VVN (ΔMRY) was used to assess the accuracy of three different VVN prediction strategies. Strategies included using data from the following: 1) the single geographically nearest trial, 2) the mean of the three geographically nearest trials, or 3) the mean of all available trial data regardless of location. Compared with random predictions of MRY for each variety (from within a normal distribution of MRY values in the VVN database), the VVN predictions reduced ΔMRY and improved the accuracy of relative yield predictions across varieties by up to 21% in broccoli, 51% in cucumber (depending on strategy), and 51% in sweet pepper. Results confirm the value of the VVN as a decision-support tool for growers facing an ever-increasing number of crop variety options with less variety trial data. Future research and development are needed to improve the accuracy of the VVN by accounting for possible effects of crop types, management, and location on relative yield and quality.

Characterization and Fungicide Sensitivity of Colletotrichum spp. from Capsicum peppers in South Korea.

Capsicum peppers, peppers from plants of the genus Capsicum (family Solanaceae), are widely cultivated in South Korea, where annual production was 92,756 tons in 2021, 54.4% higher than that of the previous year. Occurring throughout the production cycle, anthracnose is a major disease limiting commercial Capsicum pepper production worldwide, including in South Korea. This study investigates the diversity and pathogenicity of Colletotrichum species responsible for Capsicum pepper anthracnose in Gyeongbuk, South Korea, focusing on disease incidence and symptomatology in the field and the identification, morphological characteristics, pathogenicity, and fungicide sensitivity of the causative species. Disease incidence ranged from 30 to 50%, with samples categorized into three distinct symptom types, aiding accurate field diagnosis. Phylogenetic analysis classified 41 isolates into six species in the acutatum, gloeosporioides, and truncatum species complexes, revealing significant genetic diversity. Morphological characterization supported these identifications, providing a comprehensive profiling. Pathogenicity tests confirmed that all identified species induced typical anthracnose lesions, with lesion size variations suggesting differential aggressiveness. Temperature significantly influenced mycelial growth, with optimal growth between 20 and 26°C, and C. truncatum demonstrating high-temperature tolerance.In vitro fungicide sensitivity tests showed variable responses, with tebuconazole being generally effective. These findings underscore the need for species-specific fungicide recommendations and highlight the importance of continuous monitoring of Colletotrichum species. Future research should explore the molecular mechanisms of pathogenicity, host specificity, and fungicide resistance, integrating these findings with breeding programs to develop resistant pepper varieties. This study provides critical insights for effective anthracnose management in pepper cultivation and future research directions.

Susceptibility of Capsicum varieties to Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) infestation for production optimization.

Thaumatotibia leucotreta Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) is a major threat to the production and marketing of pepper (Capsicum spp.) in Ghana. To reduce the damage of the pest on pepper farming, it is important to find appropriate control methods, which may include the use of resistant host plants. This study investigated the relative susceptibility of 6 pepper varieties commonly cultivated in Ghana: Legon 18, Bird's eye, Scotch bonnet, Cayenne, KA2, and sweet pepper (Yolo wonder+ variety). Choice and no-choice ovipositional preference tests were conducted and the population growth rate of T. leucotreta was determined by establishing life table parameters including the net reproductive rates (R0), the mean generation time (G), intrinsic rate of natural increase (rm), the population doubling time (T), and the finite rate of increase (λ). In the no-choice test, females exhibited oviposition preference for sweet pepper (12.08 eggs/fruit), while Bird's eye was the least preferred (5.00 eggs/fruit). The same results were observed in the choice test. However, the population growth rate of T. leucotreta was highest on the Scotch bonnet and Cayenne, with rm of 0.124 and 0.127, respectively, while the Bird's eye and sweet pepper recorded the least rm of 0.116. Thus, the tested varieties had varying levels of susceptibility to T. leucotreta infestation. Bird's eye was the least susceptible variety, while Cayenne and Scotch bonnet were the most susceptible varieties. These findings could direct farmers on the choices of pepper varieties for cultivation and proffer potential opportunities to breed new varieties resistant to T. leucotreta infestation.

Evaluation of Hot Pepper Varieties through Farmer’s Participatory Selection at Teppi area, Southwestern Ethiopia

Three hot pepper varieties were evaluated in single plot in 2022/23 main cropping season. Farmers’ evaluation was made at two different stages of the crop, namely at vegetative and at maturity using both direct-matrix and pair-wise ranking methods of selection scheme. Farmers’ set; green pod yield, disease tolerance, pod color and size as selection criteria to evaluate and identify their preferred varieties. The results of analysis of variance indicated the existence of highly significant differences among varieties for all traits measured at 5% probability level. The highest mean green pod yield was obtained from the variety Melka Awaze (11.39 t/ha) and Melka Zala (8.39 t/ha). Likewise, these two varieties were identified as farmers preferred varieties from both pair-wise and direct matrix ranking evaluations. Thus, the varieties Melka Awaze and Melka Zala were chosen for their performance in the field and from farmers' evaluation perspective. Moreover, this study indicated participatory varietal selection is a viable method to gain greater insight into farmers’ perceptions, preferences, merits and shortcomings of hot pepper varieties. Therefore, based on the results of this study, Melka Awaze and Melka Zala varieties are recommended for multiplication and distribution to farmers in the area.

Physicochemical and Color Changes During Fruit Ripening in Pepper Species (C. annuum L., C. baccatum L., and C. chinense Jacq.) Exposed to Salt Stress

This study examines the impact of salt stress on the physicochemical and color characteristics of three pepper species (Capsicum annuum L., Capsicum baccatum L., and Capsicum chinense Jacq.) at different ripening periods. Peppers were exposed to 0 mM, 50 mM, and 100 mM NaCl during the green, breaking, and red ripening periods. The results showed that salt stress significantly influenced moisture content, total ash, pH, titratable acidity, water activity, and color parameters. C. chinense had the highest moisture content and water activity, while C. annuum demonstrated a higher total ash content and pigment density (ASTA value). As fruits ripened, moisture content decreased, and total ash content increased. Salt stress caused reductions in water activity, pH, and titratable acidity, with high salt concentrations leading to increased water loss and a decline in fruit quality. Furthermore, salt stress reduced color parameters and ASTA values, indicating suppressed carotenoid pigment synthesis. The study highlights the importance of developing salt-tolerant pepper varieties, as salt stress negatively impacts the physiological and biochemical quality of peppers. These findings suggest that appropriate agronomic strategies and careful environmental monitoring are essential for sustainable pepper production, particularly in areas with saline soils. The results provide valuable insights into the mechanisms through which salt stress affects pepper fruit quality and suggest avenues for improving crop resilience.

Genetic Diversity Analysis of Capsicum frutescens Based on Simplified Genome Sequencing Technology

Capsicum frutescens (C. frutescens) has rich germplasm resources, but there have been no reports on its genetic diversity analysis alone using simplified genome sequencing technology (GBS). To provide a basis for the breeding of new pepper varieties and the later development of C. frutescens SNP molecular markers, this study used GBS technology to sequence 65 collected pepper germplasm resources. A total of 1,399,391 SNP sites were obtained by GBS simplified genome sequencing, and there were 1,465,897 SNP variant sites. Through population genetic structure analysis, the population structure and phylogenetic tree of 65 C. frutescens germplasms were constructed. The GBS method is also suitable for the genetic relationship analysis of C. frutescens, and it also shows that there is an obvious separation of materials from different origins, and there is also a certain degree of genetic exchange. Most of C. frutescens varieties from Fujian Province and its surrounding areas are clustered together; C. frutescens varieties from western China are also clustered together. We selected T62 and T60 with a genetic distance of 0.2796 and a spiciness level of nine as the female and male parent combinations, respectively, and bred a new high-yield C. frutescens combination, ‘Mingjiao 308’. C. frutescens varieties from the same geographical origin are usually clustered together. These germplasms may contain the ancestry of multiple varieties. This result can also provide basic data for the later construction of an SNP fingerprint database.