Resumen

RAMIREZ, Homero et al. Prohexadione calcium increases antioxidant capacity, lycopene content and enzymatic activity in fruits of tomato floradade. Rev. Chapingo Ser.Hortic [online]. 2010, vol.16, n.3, pp.155-160. ISSN 2007-4034.

Prohexadione calcium (P-Ca) increases the levels of soluble solids, anthocyanins and aromatic compounds in deciduous fruits. In vegetable crops the effect of P-Ca is less documented. In this study it was evaluated the changes originated by P-Ca on total antioxidant capacity, lycopene content and catalase and peroxidase activity in Floradade tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) different concentration (0, 125, 175 and 200 mg·liter^-1) with one or two applications of P-Ca were evaluated. The first application was conducted when plants showed floral tissue initials and the second 15 days after. The results showed that P-Ca increased (P<0.01) the total antioxidant capacity in fruits under shoulder stage. The lycopene concentration increased in fruits from plants sprayed with any P-Ca concentration, being higher at the stage of green shoulder. The catalase and peroxidase enzyme activity also showed an increase (P<0.01) with the application of P-Ca.

Palabras llave : Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.; total antioxidant capacity; lycopene; catalase; peroxidase.