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The aim of this study was to recognize the mite fauna associated with apple orchards in southern Brazil and present a dichotomous key of the species sampled and those already reported in apple trees in southern Brazil. The studies were carried out in the 2020/2021 harvest in seven apple orchards of the Eva, Fuji and Gala cultivars located in the municipalities of Muitos Capões, Antônio Prado (Rio Grande do Sul state) and São Joaquim (Santa Catarina state). The orchards were divided into quadrants and sampling was carried out monthly. In each orchard, 40 plants were sampled, with three leaves of each plant collected in apical, median and basal regions of a median branch. In addition, monthly five species of spontaneous plants per orchard were sampled. A total of 8,425 mites were found, with the greatest abundance in Antônio Prado (50%), followed by Muitos Capões (35.5%) and São Joaquim (14.5%). The specimens found belong to 29 families, 64 genera and 99 species, in addition to mites of the order Oribatida. The greatest diversity was found in spontaneous vegetation (59 species), being 19 exclusives to apple trees and 21 species common to apple trees and spontaneous vegetation. Phytoseiidae was the family that presented the greatest richness, with 16 species, of which seven were common in apple trees and spontaneous plants. The most abundant species was Aculus schlechtendali Nalepa (Eriophyidae) (39.5%), followed by Panonychus ulmi (Koch) (Tetranychidae) (14.6%), Polyphagotarsonemus latus (Banks) (Tarsonemidae) (9.4%) and Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor) (Phytoseiidae) (7.4%). These results suggest that the mite fauna present in apple orchards in different landscapes and management are distinct, with a greater diversity of phytoseiid mites present in organic areas. Therefore, to maintain a greater diversity of predatory mites in these orchards, organic management seems to be the most appropriate. Furthermore, the high acarine diversity found in spontaneous vegetation demonstrates the importance of maintaining these plants in orchards that serve as refuges and reservoirs, favoring the permanence of natural enemies in these environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to know the population fluctuation of the mites in apple (Malus domestica Borkh: Rosaceae) orchards with different crop management strategies, with emphasis on Aculus schlechtendali Nalepa (Eriophyidae) and Panonychus ulmi (Koch) (Tetranychidae) and their natural enemies. The studies were carried out in 2020-21, in three organic orchards (Eva, Fuji and Gala), from Antônio Prado, two conventional (Fuji and Gala), from Muitos Capões, RS, Brazil, and two of regenerative agriculture (Fuji and Gala), in São Joaquim, SC, Brazil. Forty plants/orchard were sampled, from which three leaves/plant from the apical, median and basal offshoot were detached. The material was screened and identified in the laboratory. A total of 7.193 specimens, belonging to 14 families, 29 genera, and 40 species, were collected. The most common phytophagous mites were A. schlechtendali (46.2%), P. ulmi (16.9%) and Polyphagotarsonemus latus Banks (Tarsonemidae) (10.9%). Panonychus ulmi was observed in all orchards, being abundant in conventional and regenerative orchards. The most common predatory mites were Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor) (Phytoseiidae), Agistemus riograndensis Johann and Ferla (Stigmaeidae) and Agistemus brasiliensis Matioli, Ueckermann and Oliveira (Stigmaeidae). Among predators, greater diversity was observed in organic orchards, while in conventional and regenerative orchards N. californicus was the most common. Greater acarine abundance was observed when there was an increase in temperatures, and the predatory mites increased their populations in response to the presence of phytophagous mites. The results suggest that the mite populations were influenced by the cultivar and mainly by the management used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main models used for estimating chill accumulation throughout the dormancy period of temperate fruit trees in Brazil were developed in temperate regions in the northern hemisphere. Thus, they exhibit low precision when they are used in regions with mild winters. However, there are several little-known models that are more precise. This study aimed at evaluating the precision of eight different estimation models of chill accumulation applied to five apple cultivars which were grafted on two distinct rootstocks in a region with mild winters. Based on the coefficient of variation, the Microsoft Excel® program was used for evaluating the precision of the following models: Utah, modified Utah, CH < 7.2°C, CH < 10°C, CH < 15°C, Low chill, Taiwan low chill and Daily positive Utah chill unit (PCU). The lowest precision was attributed to both models Utah and CH < 7.2°C (the most common model in Brazil). Models CH < 15°C, Taiwan low chill, Low chill and modified Utah were considered precise (coefficient of variation < 15% in annual chill accumulation and to evaluate requirement to overcome dormancy in cultivars). No important differences were observed in models precision between 'M-26' and 'M-9' rootstocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study describes an efficient analytical method for analyzing apple pesticide residues. This novel approach employs ultrasound-assisted cleaning (UAC), solid-phase microextraction (SPME), and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A fiber coating with carbon nanomaterials (CNMs) was used for the extraction process. The methodology underwent extraction process optimization and analytical method validation. Moreover, its applicability for detecting pesticides in apples was evaluated. The validation showed satisfactory results with linearity coefficients greater than 0.99 (R2 > 0.99) and linear working ranges from 0.5 ng·g−1 to 300.0 ng·g−1. The limits of detection and quantification (LODs and LOQs) ranged from 0.1 ng·g−1 to 0.3 ng·g−1 and from 0.5 ng·g−1 to 0.7 ng·g−1, respectively. The calculated recovery values ranged from 79% to 98%. The precision presented a relative standard deviation (RSD) lower than 14%. The validated method was applied to apple samples acquired from different markets and fruit stands in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Organophosphate pesticides typically used in Brazilian apple production areas were detected in some samples. This study demonstrates the utility of UAC and CNM microextraction as an effective and highly efficient approach for analyzing pesticides in apples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The production of apples (Malus domestica: Rosaceae) in Brazil is concentrated in three states in the southern region of the country. This crop is of great economic importance for the region, and is usually susceptible to infestations of mite populations. However, recent surveys of mite species associated to apples are scarce. The aim of the present study was to fill this void by analyzing species abundance and composition on three apple cultivars in the southern region of Brazil. The survey was carried out in the states of Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Santa Catarina (SC), and Paraná (PR). A total of 94 apple orchards were evaluated (43 Gala, 40 Fuji and 11 Eva), in 19 municipalities. Twenty plants were sampled from each orchard in March 2019, with four leaves collected from each plant, thus totaling 80 leaves/orchard. Mites were screened and identified in the Laboratório de Acarologia of Universidade do Vale do Taquari - UNIVATES. Data were analyzed using the R software with mixed generalized linear models, non-metric multidimensional scaling, and PERMANOVA. A total of 4,909 mite specimens were identified, belonging to eight species and six genera, of which 1,833 were classified as phytophagous, 1,758 as predators, and 1,318 as generalists. The most abundant phytophagous species was Aculus schlechtendali (33.55%), followed by the predator Neoseiulus californicus (33.14%) and by the generalist Tarsonemus (Tarsonemus) sp. (23.99%). Abundance was similar between Eva and Fuji cultivars. However, these cultivars differed in composition, as did Eva and Gala. The mean number of mites found in Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul was similar, although Paraná had a higher number. Species composition also differed among the three states evaluated. Considering the importance of the apple production in the southern region of Brazil, studies on species composition and abundance are important, aiming to monitor potential damage-causing organisms to the crop and associated predators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prolonged periods of leaf wetness, high temperatures, and relative humidity during spring/summer are ideal conditions for the development of apple diseases in Brazil. In 2012, European canker, caused by Neonectria ditissima was officially confirmed in Brazilian apple orchards. The disease has a high potential to adversely affect fruit production as all symptomatic branches and/or all apple trees need to be eliminated to contain the epidemic in the orchards. Knowledge of N. ditissima spore release is required to optimize management practices because it facilitates the prediction of European canker infection risks and improves disease management decisions. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the release of N. ditissima spores from apple plants and detached branches over time. In the São Joaquim region of Brazil, both conidia and ascospores of N. ditissima can be released from cankers alive and/or dead in apple tissues year-round. In Brazil, peaks of spore release from N. ditissima were observed in traps when there was rainfall, irrespective of the season. Ascospore peaks were more frequent and higher than those of conidia trapped in both traps and apple tissues. Detached branches of symptomatic apple trees actively released spores of N. ditissima in the three years of evaluation, but in smaller numbers in comparison to traps with live plants. Thus, new and rigorous management measures should be adopted to control European canker dissemination in Brazilian apple orchards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzed the effect of rootstocks G.213, M.9 and Marubakaido with M.9 interstem of 30 and 20 cm (MB/M.9-30cm and MB/M.9-20cm) on postharvest quality, mineral composition and functional properties of 'Maxi Gala' apples. The evaluations were performed using fruits from a commercial orchard in Vacaria, RS, Brazil. Fruits were stored for 135 and 147 days in the 2014/2015 and 2015/2016 seasons, respectively, and analyzed one day after harvest and after cold storage (1.0±0.2 °C) followed by seven days in ambient condition. The mineral composition of fruits showed small and inconsistent differences between rootstocks. The MB/M.9-20cm provided higher total antioxidant activity and levels of total phenolic compounds in fruit peel than MB/M.9-30cm. For 2014/2015 season, soluble solids content at harvest was higher in fruits from trees with G.213 rootstock, not differing only from MB/M.9-30cm. In the 2015/2016 season, G.213 and M.9 provided higher soluble solids content after storage than MB/M.9-30 cm and MB/M.9-20cm. G.213 rootstock anticipated fruit maturity compared to M.9 in 2014/2015 season. At harvest and after cold storage, other quality attributes of 'Maxi Gala' apples were similar between rootstocks G.213, M.9 and Maruba with M.9 interstem of 30 and 20cm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Apple trees grown in warmer regions experience shallow dormancy. • Cold hardiness is different between cultivars and between cultivation sites. • The Eva cultivar does not present endodormancy and deep cold hardiness. • The maximum cold hardiness occurs after the peak of endodormancy. • Cold deacclimation is rapid and with high heterogeneity. In temperate fruit plants, climate is the main factor correlating changes in plant physiology, mainly those related to entry and exit from dormancy and cold hardiness. Acclimation to cold and its relationship with dormancy are still unknown in areas with a subtropical climate. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the dormancy dynamics and their interaction with the cold hardiness of different tissues of apple cultivars with different chilling requirements in two cultivation sites in a mild winter region in southern Brazil. The analyses were conducted from 2018 to 2022. The cultivars Gala, Fuji, and Eva were used in two environments with different altitudes. The dormancy dynamics were analyzed using the single-node cutting test, and the cold hardiness of the different tissues of each genotype was evaluated through electrolyte leakage in laboratory freezing tests. Cultivars Gala and Fuji had a greater depth of dormancy than Eva. Plants grown in orchards with higher chill accumulation had a greater depth of dormancy. Cold hardiness varied among cultivars, with the Eva cultivar having the lowest cold hardiness in mid-winter. The tissues (bud, bark, and wood) had different cold hardiness in early winter, with wood having the greatest cold hardiness, followed by bud and bark. As Eva did not go into deep dormancy, a superficial and short acclimation to cold was observed, in addition to rapid sprouting, even in winter. This condition predisposed it to cold damage to tissues in the pre-sprouting period. In this study, we found that maximum cold hardiness occurred after the end of the deep-endodormancy phase. Deacclimation of all cultivars occurred very quickly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several diseases are difficult to control specially in subtropical regions and perennial hosts where the pathogen survive easily within the plant. The aim of this study was to identify which pathogens are surviving after end of one season and at the beginning of the next season to inform which pathogens represent potential risk as primary inoculum to the next season. Survival of pathogens on apple tree twigs was evaluated during dormancy and on beginning of vegetative growth in four orchards located in the two main apple production regions: Palmas and metropolitan region of Curitiba, in Paraná State, Brazil. For this purpose, 10 cm long asymptomatic twigs were collected from 10 randomly selected plants, 24 twigs per plant. Half of the twigs were left directly (without disinfection) in humid chambers for 30 days at 25°C. The other half of the twigs were disinfected and kept in a freezer for 12 hours at -16°C by the Over Night Freezing Incubation Technique (Onfit) and then kept in a humid chamber for 30 days at 25°C. The fungi Colletotrichum sp., Botryosphaeria sp., Alternaria sp., and Fusarium sp. were detected in the two sampled dates and methodologies in all evaluated regions. Neonectria ditissima was only detected in both orchards from Palmas. The genera found surviving on twigs were confirmed molecularly by BLASTn and were pathogenic in wounded fruits from the cultivar 'Gala'. Our results indicate that pathogens are surviving in orchards after winter treatment and throughout the apple season, being potential sources of inoculum for infections in flowers and fruits, where the pathogens detected cause important diseases as bitter rot, Neonectria fruit rot, white and black rots, and possibly cause Alternaria and Fusarium rots which have not been extensively studied in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Engenharia na Agricultura is the property of Engenharia na Agricultura and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Colletotrichum chrysophilum (Cc) (formerly C. fructicola) has been identified as the primary cause of Glomerella Leaf Spot (GLS) in apple plants worldwide. However, Colletotrichum nymphaeae (Cn) was recently reported in Southern Brazil as another pathogen responsible for this disease. Thus, this study aimed to compare the virulence of representative Cc and Cn isolates through assays conducted on seedlings, detached leaves, and potted plants. Additionally, in vitro assessments were made for lipolytic, lipase, and cutinase activities, while monitoring the development of pre-infective structures on apple leaves 48 h post-infection. In contrast to Cc , most Cn isolates were unable to induce typical GLS symptoms on intact tissues. One Cn isolate caused symptoms in seedlings and potted plants, but not on detached leaves. These symptoms mainly comprised atypical lesions, raising questions about the underlying factors. While all isolates induced necrosis in wounded tissues, no association was found between fungal virulence and the activities of lipases and cutinases. Notably, a higher frequency of melanized appressoria was observed in the Cc isolate. This study explores the diversity of Colletotrichum species and its interactions with apple, shedding light on the complexities of symptom development and species-specific adaptations. • Colletotrichum chrysophilum caused Glomerella leaf spot symptoms on both wounded and non-wounded apple leaf tissues. • Most Colletotrichum nymphaeae isolates were unable to induce typical GLS symptoms on intact apple leaves. • One C. nymphaeae isolate caused symptoms in apple seedlings and potted plants, but not on detached leaves. • No association was found between virulence of Colletotrichum spp. and the activities of lipases and cutinases. • The frequency of melanized appressoria was higher for C. chrysophilum than for C. nymphaeae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this study were to characterize and quantify postharvest losses of apples under commercial conditions in Santa Catarina state, Brazil. Two experiments were conducted using 'Gala' and 'Fuji' apples. The first experiment was to characterize and quantify the most important causes of loss of fruit treated or not treated with 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) then held in controlled atmosphere (CA) storage. This experiment was conducted in commercial storage facilities from 2007 to 2010. In each year, 10 samples of 380 kg each for 'Gala' and 400 kg each for 'Fuji' were collected from bins of commercially harvested fruit from each of 15 'Gala' and 17 'Fuji' orchards. Half of the samples from each orchard were treated with 1-MCP at harvest. Fruit were stored in CA, at 0.7 C, for 150 to 300 days. After storage, one subsample of 100 disorder-free apples were selected from each sample and held at 22 C for 7 days to simulate shelf-life conditions. The fruit were analyzed after CA storage and shelf life for the incidence of disorders. The second experiment was conducted in 2011 to identify the main fungi causing decay during storage. In this study, apples were stored in 10 commercial CA storage rooms at 0.7 C for 180 to 240 days. After storage, fruit with decay symptoms were collected at the commercial sorting line. A total of 10 samples of 100 decayed apples were taken throughout the sorting period for each cultivar and storage room. The fungal decays were identified by visual symptoms on each fruit. Total apple losses during storage varied from 3.9% to 12.1% for 'Gala' and 6.6% to 8.4% for 'Fuji', depending on the year and 1-MCP treatment. During storage, deterioration caused by fungal decay was 60% and 80% of total losses for 'Gala' and 'Fuji', respectively. During shelf life, additional losses caused by fungal decay ranged from 8.4% to 17.6% for 'Gala' and 12.4% to 27.2% for 'Fuji', depending on the year. Senescent breakdown and superficial scald were the major physiological disorders. 1-MCP treatment had no effect on losses due to decay. Bull's-eye rot, blue mold, gray mold, and alternaria rot were the most prevalent fungal decay symptoms, accounting for 52%, 27%, 9% and 10% of 'Gala' losses and 42%, 25%, 18% and 5% of 'Fuji' losses, respectively. Sources of variability for losses among years and orchards is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential (predictive) distribution modelling is a forecasting tool for species distribution, using occurrence records and correlating them with the interaction of algorithms and environmental variables. Aculus schlechtendali (Nalepa) is a phytophagous mite of economic importance, associated with losses in apple trees. The present study aimed to predict the potential distribution of A. schlechtendali in southern Brazil. Available information on species occurrence in Brazil was compiled in the database of previous reports and additional data from the Laboratory of Acarology – Univates. The MaxEnt algorithm and bioclimatic variables (from Bio1 to Bio19) were used to limit the predictive model. Current records of A. schlechtendali have indicated that it is present in 17 sites, among the states of Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, and Paraná; the major producers of apple in Brazil. The most significant bioclimatic variables evaluated were Mean Temperature of the Coldest Quarter (Bio11) and Annual Mean Temperature (Bio1). Using the modelling tool, areas with environmental suitability for this mite were predicted and established in southern Brazil. These results benefit apple agricultural chain, guiding the farmers in mite management, seeking mechanisms to prevent the establishment of this species in the areas indicated as suitable for their occupation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to identify self-incompatibility (S) alleles of advanced breeding selections of apple (Malus × domestica Borkh.). The Salleles of 42 apple genotypes were analyzed by markers using allele-specific PCR amplification and amplicons digested with restriction endonucleases. Among the screened genotypes were cultivars, advanced selections, and accessions of the Apple Germplasm Bank of Epagri (Caçador, Santa Catarina, Brazil). Two S-alleles were identified in 36 genotypes, and only one S-allele was determined in the other six genotypes. In all, eleven S-alleles were identified among all the genotypes evaluated. The S3 and S5 alleles were most frequent (30.2% and 18.6%, respectively). The identification of S-alleles using molecular markers in important apple tree genotypes is useful for determination of compatible parents for breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Residues from management activities of fruit growing can be an important source of biomass for energy generation. The aim of this study was to determine the potential use of apple pruning residues for energy generation as process steam or power energy. To this end, branches from the pruning of commercial apple orchards have been evaluated in the Santa Catarina State, Brazil. To compare with the traditional biomass used for energetic purposes, particles of Pinus sp. from the industrial timber processing have also been analysed. Homogeneous pellets of the two types of biomass were produced, and three more mixes containing the two raw materials were made. Pellets have been evaluated according to their physical and energetic properties. The results have been compared to the ISO 17,225-2 Standard. Apple pruning residues have the potential for energy generation in boilers, that is, for the production of process steam and electric power. Their potential can vary from 12,649.54 MWh y−1 to 115,442.44 MWh y−1. The physical and energetic properties varied between the analysed residues, except the gross calorific value (19.69 MJ kg−1 for pine wood particles and 20.27 MJ kg−1 for apple pruning). Comparing with the pine wood (87 kg m−3), the apple pruning (141 kg m−3) has a higher amount of biomass per unit volume processed for energy and less residence time in the burning systems (17.54% fixed carbon for apple pruning and 18.91% fixed carbon for pine wood). However, it generates more wastes (ashes) after burning (3.25% for apple pruning and 0.46% for pine wood). The pellets' energy density increased by 3.35 times the energy density of the apple pruning particles after pelletizing. The homogeneous apple pruning pellets can only be applied to industrial use (I3), mainly because of its high ash content (2.27%). The pine wood with apple pruning mix used for pellet production reduces the ash content and increases the bulk density and energy density, which improves the quality of the pellets. • Tree pruning generate a substantial amount of residues that can generate energy. • Management of apple cultivation can be an important source of biomass for energy. • Mixing different types of biomass improves pellet quality. • Apple pruning is an energy suitable for industrial use in boiler and as pellet. • Adjustment of the process can improve the quality of apple pruning pellets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Benzyladenine reduces apical dominance of the central leader. • The reduction of the apical dominance causes lateral bud break and branch induction. • The greater the apical dominance reduction, the narrower the crotch angle of the lateral branches. • Benzyladenine alone promotes substantial increase in the number of lateral branches and spurs. Apple production in Southern Brazil has been increasing along the past decade, and part of this was due to the introduction of more adapted dwarfing rootstocks and consequently increased tree density in the orchards. Looking for obtaining early beariness, the use of branched nursery trees is one of the most important steps. The objective of this experiment was to determine the effects of plant the growth regulators Benzyladenine (BA), Benzyladenine + Gibberellic acid 4+7 , Thidiazuron, and Cyclanilide + Ethephon on the induction of lateral branches of 'Maxi Gala' apple trees at nursery, grafted on the rootstocks G.202, G.213, M.9, and Marubakaido with M.9 interstem. The growth regulators Benzyladenine (BA), and Benzyladenine + Gibberellic acid 4+7 are the most effective on improving tree's architecture and on increasing the number of spurs, for all scion-rootstock combinations tested. Plant growth regulators at elevated doses strongly interrupt apical dominance and stimulate an elevated number of lateral branches with narrower crotch angles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of different lengths of EM-9 interstock, on the production and fruit characteristics of Imperial Gala apples more than eight years old. This experiment was conducted in a commercial orchard located in Vacaria-RS, Brazil, situated at an altitude of 955 m, during seasons 2005/06, 2007/08, 2010/11, 2011/12 and 2012/13. The treatments consisted of five lengths of EM-9 interstock (10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 cm) connecting the Marubakaido rootstock to the Imperial Gala scion. For production efficiency a positive correlation between increased efficiency and the length of interstock was observed. Likewise a positive correlation was also noted for quality parameters of the fruit; firmness and classification (Category 1). From this study we conclude that a EM-9 interstock of 30 cm on Marubakaido rootstock is the most suitable for the vigor control of Imperial Gala apples, it ensures greater production efficiency and firmer fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to study the effect of the auxin naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and the brassinosteroid 28-homocastasterone (28-HCS) applied every 15 days (harvest 2015/16) or every 21 days (harvest 2016/17) after full bloom, on the physical, chemical and biochemical attributes of the 'Galaxy' apples. The study was performed at a commercial orchard at Vacaria county, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. The following treatments were applied: water (control), NAA (0.1%), 28-HCS (10‒6 M) and NAA (0.1%) + 28-HCS (10‒6 M). For this purpose, 300 μL of the plant growth regulator solutions were applied to the fruit peduncles. Fruits treated with NAA every 21 days presented higher starch-iodine index and lower total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), lightness index (L) and hue angle (h°) than 28-HCS-treated fruits. Fruits treated every 15 days with NAA presented reduced skin rupture force (SRF), total antioxidant activities (TAA) of the skin and flesh, and hydrogen peroxide content compared to the control fruits. In addition, NAA application every 15 and 21 days resulted in increased anthocyanin content in the skin. Application of NAA + 28-HCS reduced superoxide dismutase activity. 28-HCS applications increased TSS, color attributes (C and h°) of the skin, total antioxidant activity of the skin and flesh and peroxidase activity compared to control fruits. These results are expected to help to understand how plant growth regulators affect apple quality. In addition, results described here are also expected to help on the development of strategies to reduce post harvest losses and to increase fruit shelf life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The apple (Malus domestica Borkh) originally evolved to require temperatures below 7.2 °C for the induction of budding and flowering. In Brazil, breeders have overcome the climate barrier and developed the cultivars Anabela, Julieta, Carícia, and Eva, with low chilling requirements and good yield characteristics. These cultivars are grown in many warmer climate countries in South America, Africa, and the Middle East. The apple germplasm collection that originated these cultivars has several genotypes with pedigrees for a low chilling requirement. Knowledge of the variability and genetic relationships among these genotypes may be useful in the development of superior new cultivars. In this work, we first selected the best ISSR (inter-simple sequence repeat) primers for genetic studies in apple, and then we used the selected primers to evaluate the genetic variability of the apple germplasm collection at the Instituto Agronômico do Paraná. The evaluation of 42 ISSR primers in 10 apple genotypes allowed us to select the best nine primers based on the polymorphic information content (PIC) and resolving power (RP) indexes. The primer selection step was robust since the dendrogram obtained with the nine selected primers was the same as the one obtained using all 26 polymorphic primers. Primer selection using PIC and RP indexes allowed us to save about 60% of time and costs in the genetic variability study. The nine ISSR primers showed high levels of genetic variability in the 60 apple genotypes evaluated. The relevance of the primer selection step is discussed from the perspective of saving time and money in germplasm characterization. The high genetic variability and the genetic relationships among the genotypes are discussed from the perspective of the development of new apple cultivars, mainly aiming for a low chilling requirement that can better adapt to current climatic conditions or those that may arise with global warming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apple volatile aroma depends of complex interaction among organic compounds. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) application on volatile profile and quality on 'Royal Gala' apples produced in Southern Brazil and stored under controlled atmosphere condition (CA; 1.0kPa O2+1.2kPa CO2; 0.5±0.1°C; 94±1% relative humidity). Volatile profile was determined after eight month of CA storage plus 7 days of shelf life via solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and analyzed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometer. In the volatile profile were identified 8 esters, 11 alcohols, 6 aldehydes, 6acids, 2ketones, 1 ether and 1 terpene. 1-MCP application reduced significantly the main volatile compounds production by 'Royal Gala' apples produced in Southern Brazil. Its application decreases significantly the esters production, especially 2-methyl-butyl acetate and hexyl acetate, compared to 'Royal Gala' apples storage under CA. 1-methylcyclopropene application decrease ethyleneproduction and respiration rate. Apples treated with 1-MCP exhibit higher hexanal and 2(E)-hexenal production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of EntomoBrasilis is the property of EntomoBrasilis and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Phenological observations are some of the most sensitive data for the identification of plant species growth in regional climate conditions. Thus, an experiment was conducted from October 2008 to December 2009 to characterize the phenological stages, fruit set and fruit yield of Princesa apples grown under a semiarid climate in northeastern Brazil. Phenological data (stages) were determined in the orchard by daily observations from bud breaking until fruit ripening. The following variables were evaluated: i) fruit set, which is the relation between the number of flowers and the number of fruits (%); ii) the number of fruit per plant; iii) the fruit production per plant (kg); and iv) the fruit yield (t ha-1). Under semiarid conditions, the phenological cycle of Princesa apples is completed in 123 days and that it is possible to obtain apple yield under semiarid conditions with the pollinator cultivar. Furthermore, additional studies and more evaluation years are necessary to generate an apple production system that is reliable under semiarid conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the variability and temporal tendency for the main climate parameters - air maximum, minimum and mean temperatures, chilling hours (bellow to 7°C), pluvial precipitation, and relative air humidity - in the 1983-2009 period, focusing to evaluate the climate conditions for Gala and Fuji apple groups, in Vacaria, Brazil. Daily weather data in the 1983-2009 series were compared to climate means of the 1931-1960 and 1961-1990 periods, for analyzing the temporal trends. The annual pluvial precipitation showed significant differences in comparing the 1983-2009 series to both the climate means, with increments of 479 and 256mm, respectively. There were no significant differences in monthly air temperatures among the analyzed periods. The pluvial precipitation in spring season and the annual mean of minimum air temperature showed significant tendencies for increasing. The mean number of 657chilling hours was from May to August. The minimum number of chilling hours defined zoning of agroclimatic is achieved in most of the years, in Vacaria, however, does not mean the natural breaking of bud dormancy the apple tree. Otherwise, the number of chilling hours had a significant tendency for reducing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grapholita molesta (Busck) is one of the main pests of apple trees, and lives on their shoots and fruits. In southern Brazil, the insect is also found on old branches and structures similar to aerial roots, so-called burrknots. This study evaluated the development and population growth potential of G. molesta fed on burrknots, compared with apple fruit cultivar. Fuji and a corn-based artificial diet. The study was carried out in the laboratory under controlled temperature (25 ± 1°C), relative humidity (70 ± 10%), and photophase (16 h). The biological parameters of the immature and adult stages were determined, and a fertility life table was constructed. Insects fed on burrknots showed a longer duration and a lower survival for the egg-to-adult period (29.3 d and 22.5%) compared with those that fed on apples (25.1 d and 30.0%) and artificial diet (23.9 d and 54.8%). Insects reared on aerial roots had a lower pupal weight (10.0 mg) compared with those reared on either artificial diet (13.7 mg) or apple cultivar. Fuji (12.4 mg). The fecundity and longevity of males and females did not significantly differ for the three foods. Based on the fertility life table, insects reared on burrknots had the lowest net reproductive rate (Ro), intrinsic rate of population growth (rm) and finite rate of increase (λ), compared with insects reared on artificial diet and apple fruit. Burrknots support the development of the complete cycle of G. molesta, which allows populations of this pest to increase in orchards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Températe fruit crops are an important economic activity for growers in southern Brazil. However, several pest species are associated to apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) crops in Brazil. Pesticides are largely used to control them and one way to change this is to combine selective pesticides and predator insects. The goal of this research was to evalúale the effects of the abamectin, carbaryl, fenitrothion, methidathion, sulfur, and trichlorfon pesticides on the survival and stage length of larvae and pupae, adult oviposition from treated larvae, and hatched eggs of two Chiysoperla externa (Hagen, 1861) (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) populations. The compounds were sprayed on glass plates in accordance with the International Organization for Biological Control (IOBC) recommendations. First- and second-instar larvae were exposed to pesticide residues. Carbaryl, fenitrothion, and methidathion caused 100% mortality of first- and second-instar larvae. Changes in the number of eggs laid by females from first- and second-instar larvae exposed to residues of abamectin and sulfur, or abamectin, sulfur, and trichlorfon, respectively, were not observed. Only abamectin reduced the number of hatched eggs laid by females in Bento Gongalves from treated first-instar larvae. Sulfur reduced the viability of C. externa eggs in Bento Gonjalves and Vacaría females from treated second-instar larvae, vvhereas trichlorfon and abamectin reduced the viability of eggs in Vacaría females. In conclusión, carbaryl, fenitrothion and methidathion were harmful to C. externa. Trichlorfon was harmful to first-instar larvae and slightly harmful to second-instar larvae. Abamectin and sulfur were slightly harmful to first-instar larvae and harmless to second-instar larvae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: It is hypothesized that apples of 2 Brazilian cultivars with different content of sugars and antioxidant compounds promote similar effects on the antioxidant status and lipid peroxidation in human serum after acute intake. Nine healthy women ingested 300 mL of Golden Delicious or Catarina apple juice (AJ) or water, and blood samples were collected before and 1 hour after intake. After intake of both AJ, a similar and significant increase in serum antioxidant capacity and ascorbic and uric acid levels and a significant decrease in serum lipid peroxidation was observed. The increase in serum antioxidant capacity after consumption of both AJ was correlated directly with the uric acid levels and inversely with serum lipid peroxidation. In summary, the acute intake of AJ of 2 cultivars promoted a similar effect on the antioxidant status and lipid peroxidation in human blood serum. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Apple plants are self-incompatible because a genetic mechanism allows the female reproductive organ to recognize and reject self-pollen or pollen from genetic related individuals and allows non-self pollen to effect fertilization. Thus, there are implications to both breeding strategies and orchard management for fruit production. The purpose of this study was to identify and to characterize the S-RNase alleles of the gametophytic incompatibility among apple cultivars developed in Brazil, seeking to give support for choosing right combinations of parent in the apple breeding programs. It also sought to identify correct combinations of scion/pollinator cultivars of commercial apple orchards. A total of 16 specific S-RNase alleles primers were tested against DNA extracted from 12 Brazilian cultivars and their parents. The molecular analysis confronted to the reference cultivars, showed that the cultivars Daiane, Imperatriz and Princesa have the same incompatibility S3 and S5 alleles, while 'Lisgala' showed the alleles S2 and S5; 'Suprema', S1 and S9; 'Catarina', S1 and S19; 'Joaquina' and 'Fred Hough', S5 and S19; 'Baronesa', S3 and S9; 'Duquesa', S2 and S3. For 'Primícia' and 'Condessa' it was only possible to identify one of the S-alleles, namely S24 and S2, respectively, with the second allele remaining to be identified. Progeny test indicated the Mendelian inheritance for RNase alleles. Results of this study will be helpful to judiciously choose parents in apple breeding programs to improve compatibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous solution of Aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG) has been commercialized in Brazil as ReTain™C, 15% mainly as a potent inhibitor of ethylene biosynthesis by prevention of pre-harvest abscission and ripening of apple fruits. The effect of the product was evaluated during the 2007- 08 and 2008-09 crop seasons in edafoclimatic conditions of Santa Catarina upland. Plants of 'Royal Gala' cultivar were sprayed with ReTain™C, four weeks before the first commercial harvest at doses of 0; 62,5; 125, and 250mg a.i L-1. The incidence and severity were quantified weekly in 100 leaves distributed in four branches with 12 replications and assessed the area under the incidence -I and severity -S disease progress curve (AUIDPC and AUSDPC) of Glomerella leaf spot (GLS). The AUIDPC and AUSDPC were significantly higher after AVG application and although there was no significant difference between 125 and 250mg a.i L-1 doses in both 2007-08 and 2008-09 crop seasons. In general, the symptoms of GLS (e.g. chlorosis, necrosis) increased between the fourth and eighth week after application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The total phenolic, flavanol, monomeric anthocyanin contents and the antioxidant activity of flesh and peel of 11 apple cultivars from Brazil were investigated. Concentrations of the parameters measured differed significantly among the apple cultivars and were highest in the peel compared to the flesh. Total phenolic content (mg GAE/100g fresh matter) ranged from 128.3 (Golden Delicious) to 212.0 (Epagri-F5P283) in the flesh and 304.6 (Golden Delicious) to 712.6 (Catarina) in the peel. Total flavanol content (mg CAE/100g fm) varied from 11.7 (Epagri-SJ11) to 28.2 (Epagri-F43P23) and from 32.4 (Epagri-SJ11) to 147.7 (Catarina) in the flesh and peel, respectively. COOP-24 peel had the highest total anthocyanin content. The Epagri-F5P283 and Epagri-F43P23 flesh and Catarina peel had the highest antioxidant activity while Golden Delicious flesh and peel had the lowest. The total phenolic content and antioxidant activity were significantly correlated in both flesh (R 2 =0.717) and peel (R 2 =0.716). The contribution of phenolics to the antioxidant activity in peel suggests that their removal may induce a significant loss of antioxidants. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study aimed to evaluate the temporal dynamic of 'Gala' leaf spot under conventional and organic systems of production in edafoclimatic conditions of Santa Catarina plateau. The incidence and severity were quantified biweekly in 100 leaves distributed in four branches of the "Royal Gala" cultivar with 12 replications, generating 16 maps for each system of production. The disease severity was evaluated in accordance with the specific diagrammatic scale. Curves of disease progress were made and the epidemics compared according to: a) the beginning of symptoms appearance (BSA); b) the time to reach the maximum disease intensity and severity (TRMDI and TRMDS); c) the maximum value of disease intensity and severity (Imax and Smax); and d) area under the incidence and severity disease progress curve (AUIPCI and AUSDPC). The incidence and severity data were analyzed by linear regression, adjusted for three empirical models, Logistic, Monomolecular and Gompertz. The 'Royal Gala' cultivar was susceptible to Colletotrichum spp. and the highest disease intensity was observed in the organic than in conventional system of production. The Logistic epidemiological model was the most appropriate to describe the disease progress curve and, there is no significant difference between systems when used only incidence value. The severity progress rate (r) was significantly higher in the organic than in the conventional system of production.l [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) are usually found in higher concentrations than other macronutrients in apple (Malus x domestica Borkh) fruits and are most frequently associated with changes in fruit quality. The aim of this article was to evaluate the effects of N and K fertilization on some fruit quality attributes of Fuji apple. The experiment was conducted at São Joaquim, State of Santa Catarina, Brazil, during 2004 and 2005. A factorial design was used with N and K annual fertilizer rates (0, 50, 100, and 200 kg ha-1 of N and K2O) replicated in three orchards. Fifteen days prior to harvest, three fruit samples were collected from each treatment and site. One sample was used for total soluble solid content (TSS), titratable acidity, pulp firmness, and fruit color parameter analyses, and the other samples were refrigerated in a conventional atmosphere for 3 and 6 months for subsequent determination of fruit quality. Nitrogen fertilization negatively affected fruit color, flesh firmness, and TSS content. These same variables were positively affected by K fertilization, except for flesh firmness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most Brazilian soils do not possess sufficient concentrations of available potassium (K) to produce maximum apple yield. Potassium distribution was evaluated with a depth profile of a Humic Xanthic Hapludox receiving K fertilization in an apple orchard, cv. Gala/MM106, at Vacaria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Treatments consisted of four rates of annual maintenance K fertilization. After 12 years of cultivation, soil was sampled in eight depth increments. Potassium, calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) contents were extracted by Mehlich I, ion-exchange resin, and ammonium acetate pH 7.0. Long-term application of K fertilizer resulted in K accumulation mainly in the 0- to 30-cm surface layer, with low K mobilization to deeper layers. Increasing rates of K fertilizer did not affect soil Mg concentration but induced a lower Ca concentration extracted by Mehlich I, especially in the 0- to 20-cm layer. The estimated K2O rate for maximum apple yield was 86.5 kg/ha/year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cashews (nut+apple) were harvested in July 1997 from clones of early dwarf cashew trees installed under irrigation at MAISA's (Mossoro´ Agroindustrial S.A.) property, in Mossoro´-Rio Grande do Norte state, Brazil, and sorted according to the apple size and skin colour, into seven development and maturity stages. The following characteristics were analysed in the apples: weight, length, upper and lower diameters, pulp firmness, pH, soluble solids (SS), titratable acidity (TA), SS/TA ratio, vitamin C, tannins, total carotenoids, total chlorophyll, total pectin, total calcium, anthocyanins, starch, soluble calcium and reducing sugars. Pseudofruits increased significantly in size after the full development of the nuts. The peak of consumption quality, i.e. highest soluble solids, reducing sugars content, and highest SS/TA ratio was reached at the end of stage seven. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In recent years, many agriculture-related problems have been evaluated with the integration of artificial intelligence techniques and remote sensing systems. Specifically, in fruit detection problems, several recent works were developed using Deep Learning (DL) methods applied in images acquired in different acquisition levels. However, the increasing use of anti-hail plastic net cover in commercial orchards highlights the importance of terrestrial remote sensing systems. Apples are one of the most highly-challenging fruits to be detected in images, mainly because of the target occlusion problem occurrence. Additionally, the introduction of high-density apple tree orchards makes the identification of single fruits a real challenge. To support farmers to detect apple fruits efficiently, this paper presents an approach based on the Adaptive Training Sample Selection (ATSS) deep learning method applied to close-range and low-cost terrestrial RGB images. The correct identification supports apple production forecasting and gives local producers a better idea of forthcoming management practices. The main advantage of the ATSS method is that only the center point of the objects is labeled, which is much more practicable and realistic than bounding-box annotations in heavily dense fruit orchards. Additionally, we evaluated other object detection methods such as RetinaNet, Libra Regions with Convolutional Neural Network (R-CNN), Cascade R-CNN, Faster R-CNN, Feature Selective Anchor-Free (FSAF), and High-Resolution Network (HRNet). The study area is a highly-dense apple orchard consisting of Fuji Suprema apple fruits (Malus domestica Borkh) located in a smallholder farm in the state of Santa Catarina (southern Brazil). A total of 398 terrestrial images were taken nearly perpendicularly in front of the trees by a professional camera, assuring both a good vertical coverage of the apple trees in terms of heights and overlapping between picture frames. After, the high-resolution RGB images were divided into several patches for helping the detection of small and/or occluded apples. A total of 3119, 840, and 2010 patches were used for training, validation, and testing, respectively. Moreover, the proposed method's generalization capability was assessed by applying simulated image corruptions to the test set images with different severity levels, including noise, blurs, weather, and digital processing. Experiments were also conducted by varying the bounding box size (80, 100, 120, 140, 160, and 180 pixels) in the image original for the proposed approach. Our results showed that the ATSS-based method slightly outperformed all other deep learning methods, between 2.4% and 0.3%. Also, we verified that the best result was obtained with a bounding box size of 160 × 160 pixels. The proposed method was robust regarding most of the corruption, except for snow, frost, and fog weather conditions. Finally, a benchmark of the reported dataset is also generated and publicly available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The fruit attributes of three 'Fuji' apple strains were compared. • At harvest, strains had similar maturity but different skin color and watercore extent. • Strains showed similar levels of fungal decay, superficial scald, and blotch pit. • Maintenance of fruit firmness during storage was similar for all 'Fuji' strains. • Fruit susceptibility to CO 2 injury differed among apple strains. Commercial apples are graded primarily by appearance and many new 'Fuji' apple strains have been planted in commercial orchards because of the enhanced red color of their skin. The fruit of most apple strains selected for skin color do not differ; however, some apple strains may produce fruit with different firmness and soluble solid content (SSC). This study compared the fruit quality and maturity of three 'Fuji' apple strains ('Fuji Suprema', 'Mishima', and 'Fuji Select') grown in experimental orchards in southern Brazil. Fruit were harvested at two maturity stages: early, which were stored in air; and advanced, which were stored in a controlled atmosphere (CA). Storage conditions were selected to induce the development of different physiological disorders. Fruit quality was assessed one day after harvest and after 210 days of storage at 0.8 °C plus seven days at 22 °C, over three growing seasons. Skin color was the main variable that distinguished fruits of the three strains. The extent of red coloration was greater on the surface of 'Fuji Suprema' apples than on 'Mishima' or 'Fuji Select', especially for early-harvest fruit. The pattern of fruit maturation on the tree was the same for the three strains and they showed similar starch index, SSC, and titratable acidity; flesh firmness was slightly (<2.5 N) lower in 'Fuji Select' for both maturity stages. At harvest, fruits of the three strains were also similar in terms of fruit weight and development of russeting disorder. 'Fuji Select' apples were least affected by watercore. The three strains showed similar rates of loss of firmness and were equally affected by fungal decay, core rot, superficial scald, calcium deficiency disorders, shrivel, and diffuse flesh browning during storage, indicating that they did not differ in terms of storability. 'Fuji Suprema' had the lowest susceptibility to CO 2 injury, suggesting that distinct CA protocols could be applied for the different 'Fuji' strains. The results show that planting of 'Fuji Suprema' could increase fruit production of high quality grades based on red skin color and reduce the expenses associated with CO 2 removal from storage facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Malay apple is a fruit tree found in northeastern Brazil; little is known about the composition and properties of its fruit, which motivated the present study. Among natural antioxidants, anthocyanins are pigments responsible for the red and blue coloring of a wide range of food plants. There is a growing interest in their use by the pharmaceutical industry; however, their sensitivity to environmental factors means processing is required to ensure their stability. Spray‐drying has proved to be effective in this regard. The aim of this study was to dry Malay apple skin extract by two different methods (spray‐ and freeze‐drying) and analyze the physical and chemical properties, morphology, and bioactive compounds of the products obtained, in order to assess the preservation of the antioxidants and conduct a preliminary study on their possible encapsulation. The results indicated that it is possible to obtain a powder with low humidity and preserved biocharacteristics using freeze‐ and spray‐drying, with high yield. When compared to the freeze‐dried product, the spray‐drying conserved the bioactive compounds and provided smaller size distribution than that obtained by freeze‐drying. The results obtained by spray‐drying showed favorable for use in controlled release systems. Practical applications: This work had as practical applications the use of a local and almost industrially unexplored fruit, the Malay apple, as a product rich in anthocyanins and other bioactive compounds for use as food additive and with potential use in cosmetics, since the compounds obtained, anthocyanins, have proven antioxidant capacity. Bioactive compounds from the peel of the Malay apple were determined for the first time. The spray‐drying process maintains much of the bioactive characteristics of the Malay apple skin. The freeze‐drying process is more effective in preserving the properties of the skin of the Malay apple. The zeta potential of the Malay apple was determined for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Planting density increasing with the use of dwarf rootstocks it is a fact that has changed the scenario of the pome culture in Brazil. The objective of this work was to evaluate the plant growth, productivity and fruit quality of the Fuji Suprema cultivar grafted on the rootstocks G.213 and M.9 in a new area (virgin soil) and in the replanting area of apple trees in Vacaria City in Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil. The cultivar Fuji Suprema grafted on the rootstocks G.213 and M.9 was used, being the experiment 1 in new area and the experiment 2 in area of replanting of apple trees. In both experiments, the orchard was implanted in 2014. The spacing adopted was 4.0 m between rows and 0.9 m between plants, totaling a density of 2,777 plants per hectare. Vegetative/productive evaluations were carried out in the 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 harvests in commercial orchards of the company Rasip Agro Pastoril S/A. In the experiment 1, the G.213 rootstock was highlighted for the variables accumulated productivity, accumulated productive efficiency, ASTT, number of branches and scion volume. In this same experiment, the M.9 rootstock was overestimated in some crops for the variables fruit mass and pulp firmness. In the experiment 2, the G.213 rootstock was highlighted as to the accumulated productivity, accumulated productive efficiency, ASTT, number of branches and scion volume. In the 2016 crop, the rootstock M.9, stood out for the diameter and mass of fruits and soluble solids and in the 2017 harvest for pulp firmness. In order to cultivate Fuji Suprema, both in the new area and in the replanting area of apple trees, the G.213 rootstock is a new dwarf rootstock option for the southern region of Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale) is a tropical evergreen tree largely cultivated in Brazil, which produces the cashew apple, a peduncle rich in carbohydrates and considered an industrial waste of the nut production. Until now, there were no data available about the chemical structure of cell wall polysaccharides found in cashew apple. In this work, its pectic polysaccharides have been characterized through monosaccharide composition, HPSEC, methylation and 13C and 1H/13C HSQC-DEPT-NMR analyses. Highly methyl esterified homogalacturonan with a DE of 76% mixed with arabinogalactan were found. This latter was purified and presented a highly branched type II arabinogalactan (AG II) and small amounts of a type I rhamnogalacturonan in which the AG II could be anchored. These findings about the chemical structure of cashew apple pectins could contribute to develop future nutritional, biotechnological and pharmacological uses for this industrial waste from the cashew nut production. Image 1 • Pectins have been extracted and chemically characterized from cashew apple. • Highly methyl esterified (DE = 76%) homogalacturonan was found. • A highly branched type II arabinogalactan was also observed. • It is the first study about cashew apple pectins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]