Resumo

SALAZAR-GARCIA, Samuel; MEDINA-CARRILLO, Raquel Enedina  e  ALVAREZ-BRAVO, Arturo. Irrigation and solar radiation influence on content of phytochemicals in peel of ‘Hass’ avocado. Rev. Mex. Cienc. Agríc [online]. 2016, vol.7, n.spe13, pp.2565-2575. ISSN 2007-0934.

The photosynthetic activity and concentration of phytochemicals in plants are strongly influenced by solar radiation and its reduction causes significant changes in concentration of both chlorophyll and compounds produced in secondary metabolism pathways. In addition to lighting conditions, water availability and temperature cause biochemical and physiological changes affecting metabolism, development and crop yield. Climate change is crucial for biotic and abiotic stresses to be present during plant development, so the knowledge of its effects could result in a better crop management. The objective of this study was to quantify chlorophyll content and total phenolic compounds in peel of 'Hass' avocado grown under different water management (with and without irrigation) and fruit coverage (covered and uncovered). Water management did not modify the content of phytochemicals in peel. Regarding the degree of exposure to solar radiation, uncovered fruits had a higher concentration of total phenolic compounds and chlorophyll, compared with covered fruit (stressed by lack of light).

Palavras-chave : Persea americana; chlorophyll; phenolic; phytochemicals; solar radiation.