Search

The number of chilling hours is responsible for maximizing budding and flowering in temperate climate fruit trees, and this number varies widely between years. An important source of variability is the occurrence of the ENSO - El Niño Southern Oscillation. With the intent of further understanding, the objective set was to analyze the influence of ENSO on chilling hours in Rio Grande do Sul State. To perform the analysis it was used data of air temperature - below 7.2 o C - from 24 meteorological stations. The results showed that when La Niña occurs, the percentage of chilling hours was above average for the period analyzed in all locations, and when El Niño occurs, the values were below average in 79% of the locations. The highest number of chilling hours, observed in each location, mainly occurred during the presence of La Niña and the lowest number was mainly observed during the occurrence of El Niño. The largest deviation (%) of chilling hours from the average occurred in May. Despite the month of July having the highest number of chilling hours, the occurrence of El Niño or La Niña does not show any difference between them. The month of September also shows no difference when comparing instances of El Niño and La Niña. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cacao (Theobroma cacoa L.) is an important tropical fruit tree used in chocolate production. Among the biotic problems interfering with fruit production, phytopathogenic fungi stand out. During a visit to cocoa production areas in the municipality of Medicilândia, Pará, Brazil (Amazon region), we observed cocoa fruits with dark lesions and greyish‐white cottony mycelia growth. In order to determine the aetiological agent's identity, we extracted DNA and amplified part of the TEF‐1α and RBP2 genes and compared them with sequences in GenBank using the BLASTn tool. Based on molecular results and phylogenetic analysis, the isolates were identified as Calonectria hawksworthii. Inoculations in cacao fruits showed symptoms after 6 days and were similar to those collected in the field, confirming the postulates. This study is the first report of Ca. hawksworthii causing cocoa bean rot worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit availability experienced by different primate species is likely to vary due to species‐specific fruit use, even within the same habitat and timeframe. Pitheciines, primates of the subfamily Pitheciinae, particularly favor the seeds of unripe fruits. Researchers consider this dietary characteristic an adaptation to increase access to fruit resources. However, the relative advantages of pitheciines over sympatric non‐pitheciine non‐seed‐eating primates regarding species‐specific fruit availability is not well studied. In a 26‐ha forest within the city of Manaus, Amazonian Brazil, we assessed the wild‐food feeding behavior of free‐ranging groups of golden‐faced sakis (Pithecia chrysocephala) and sympatric common squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus). We hypothesized that sakis would have greater and more consistent access to wild fruit due to (1) a wider variety of fruit species in their diet, and (2) longer consumption periods per fruit species. We recorded the plant species, part (pulp or seed), and developmental stage (ripe or unripe) of wild fruit consumed by both species. We also conducted monthly fruit censuses of 1000 trees and vines to estimate overall wild fruit abundance. As an indicator of fruit availability, we calculated the proportion of available fruiting trees and vines for each primate species separately based on their observed diet. Throughout the year, the proportion of available trees and vines was significantly higher and more temporally stable for sakis than for squirrel monkeys. This was because sakis used shared fruit species longer than squirrel monkeys by consuming both ripe and unripe fruit. Although sakis had a broader fruit repertoire than squirrel monkeys, it did not contribute to the higher fruit availability. Thus, the fruit feeding system of sakis identifies aspects of a niche that is less restricted in the timing of fruit consumption, which led to a relative advantage in fruit availability. Research Highlights: We examined the advantages of saki feeding system in fruit availability by direct comparison with sympatric squirrel monkeys.Sakis consumed fruits earlier and for longer periods than squirrel monkeys.The proportion of available fruiting trees/vines was considerably higher and more temporally stable for sakis than for squirrel monkeys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silvopastoral systems can have animal welfare and sustainability benefits because trees continually remove carbon from atmosphere, reducing greenhouse effects. Thisstudy identified the most promising fruit trees for inclusion in silvopastoral systems to dairy cattle calves. This experiment was conducted at Embrapa Agrossilvipastoril, Brazil, between 2014 and 2018. Five silvopastoral systems with fruit trees and 'Tifton-85' grass were designed to evaluate tree growth and light environment under the canopies. Data were analyzed using SAS® and PDIFF (P < 0.10). Caja fruit trees had the greatest tree height (5.4 m) and trunk diameter (23.4 cm), while acerola fruit tree had the smallest (1.8 m and 8.3 cm, respectively). At 42 months (drought 2017), caja, cashew, and guava trees had similar heights. Guava trees had the highest light interception (89.3%), both cashew cultivars provided medium levels of shade (50 to 60% LI) and with greater constancy between the rainy and dry seasons. The systems that showed increased light interception during the drought period were those with CCP76 in 2017 and EMB51 in 2018. Higher incidences of wavelengths of the spectral composition of light occurred between the rainfall (2015) and drought (2017) periods, and greater differences in the ratio of red:far red in 2015. By 2018, there were no more differences between the rainy and dry seasons for the spectral composition of light under the tree canopies. Cashews and guava trees have adequate growth and light environment to support silvopastoral systems but Caja and acerola fruit trees showed limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Campomanesia adamantium O. Berg. is a fruit tree species native to the Brazilian Cerrado biome whose fruits are consumed raw by the population. The present study determined the chemical composition of the C. adamantium fruit pulp (FPCA) and investigated its in vitro antioxidant potential and its biological effects in a Caenorhabditis elegans model. The chemical profile obtained by LC-DAD-MS identified 27 compounds, including phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and organic carboxylic acids, in addition to antioxidant lipophilic pigments and ascorbic acid. The in vitro antioxidant activity was analysed by the radical scavenging method. In vivo, FPCA showed no acute reproductive or locomotor toxicity. It promoted protection against thermal and oxidative stress and increased the lifespan of C. elegans. It also upregulated the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and glutathione S-transferase and activated the transcription factor DAF-16. These results provide unprecedented in vitro and in vivo evidence for the potential functional use of FPCA in the prevention of oxidative stress and promotion of longevity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Biotropica is the property of Wiley-Blackwell 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.)

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]

Approximately 500 native edible fruits are known from Brazil with nearly 50% of these occurring in the Amazon. Pollen morphology of Brazilian plant species is poorly known yet it is important for scientific research. The aim of this study is to document the pollen morphology of 30 native edible fruit species belonging to 13 families. Following acetolysis the pollen was examined by light microscopy. Pollen grains ranged from small to very large. Prolate spheroidal and subprolate shapes predominated in most species, and most pollen grains had outline triangular to subtriangular. Polyads, tetrads and monads were observed, and the aperture arrangement varied from inarperturate to colpate and colporate, with the majority being 3-colporate and having a reticulate sexine. The species documented will contribute to pollen flora of Brazil and the information used in melissopalynollogical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In fruit tree breeding, selection indices are used to identify the genotypes that combine desirable commercial and non-commercial characteristics. As Theobroma grandiflorum is generally cultivated in agroforestry systems (AFS), there is a need to develop cultivars that are adapted to such environments. In this study, the objective was to select the most promising genotypes for their future use in AFS based on the additive index, a pioneering method for this crop. The trial was carried out for 12 years in an agroforestry system in the municipality of Tomé-Açu, Pará State, Brazil. The 16 evaluated clones were completely randomised with a variable number of repetitions. The average number of fruits produced as well as the morpho-agronomic characteristics of the fruits were analysed. Mixed linear models were used to estimate the components of variance and predict the genotypic values. The genetic correlation between the variables was estimated, and the selection of genotypes was based on the additive index, with a positive orientation of all variables except the thickness of the fruit shells and the weight of the fruits. Clones 42, 44, 46, 47, 57, 61, and 64 performed well for all the analysed variables, resulting in a selection gain of 7.3% and low incidence rates of witches' broom disease. These genotypes can be made available to producers in the form of clones for use in AFS and can further be included in future hybridisations in T. grandiflorum breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here we present a taxonomic treatment of the subfamily Celastroideae (Celastraceae) in the state of Espírito Santo, southeastern Brazil, as a part of the ongoing project Flora do Espírito Santo. The work is based on analyses of herbaria specimens and fieldwork since 2012. Two genera and thirteen species are reported for Espírito Santo, covering all the vegetation formations found in the state. Celastrus is represented by one species, C. liebmannii, the unique climbing species of the subfamily in Brazil. Monteverdia are shrubs and trees characterized by fruits 2-valved, pericarp coriaceous and white aril. The genus is represented by twelve species, corresponding nearly to one third of the Brazilian species. Celastrus liebmannii is formally reported by the first time to Espírito Santo. Morphological descriptions, comments, color photographs plates, and identification keys for genera and Monteverdia species are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the associations of seasonality, dispersal modes and seed germination speeds with the fruiting of Clusia nemorosa, Pleroma fissinervium, and Vochysia pyramidalis in a gallery forest, Chapada Diamantina, Brazil. Observations of mature fruits with dispersing seeds were carried out from 2003 to 2006. Cross-correlation and circular statistics were performed to test the relationships among fruiting and abiotic factors, and phenological seasonality. Dispersion syndromes were defined and germination experiments were performed after seed collection (n =100/species), using four replicates. The species evidenced seasonal fruiting. Clusia nemorosa produced zoochoric seeds and V. pyramidalis anemochoric seeds, which were dispersed during the rainy season and positively correlated with precipitation; P. fissinervium produced autochoric seeds, released during the dry season to early rainy season, being positively correlated with insolation and negatively with humidity. The rotating wing seeds of V. pyramidalis were released in the rainy season and aided floating in watercourses, characterizing hydrochory. Clusia nemorosa and V. pyramidalis germinated (2-6 days) more rapidly than P. fissinervium (9 days). Seasonality, dispersal modes, and optimal germination conditions modulated the fruiting of the species examined, whose reproductive strategies responded to environmental drivers such as precipitation, favoring germination during the rainy season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus black spot (CBS) symptom expression on sweet oranges has been reported to be affected by the fruit developmental stage and inoculum concentration in greenhouse conditions. However, there is little information concerning the period in which the fruit is susceptible in commercial orchards. This study assessed the influence of fruit age and inoculum concentration of Phyllosticta citricarpa on CBS intensity and fruit drop in the field. Two field trials were conducted in commercial 'Valencia' orchards in São Paulo state, Brazil. Fruit were inoculated from October (petal fall stage) to July (c.6.5 cm diameter), with 101, 103 and 105 pycnidiospores/ml. CBS symptoms and fruit drop were observed in higher levels for fruit inoculated from October to February than from March to July. In both trials, when fruit were inoculated 10 times from October to July or single‐inoculated in November or December, high CBS severities of 11%–22% were observed and the proportion of fruit remaining on the tree was 48%–77%; in contrast, noninoculated fruit had severity below 1.1% and 90% remained on the tree. Inoculations in November or December of green fruit with 1.5–3.0 cm diameter using 105 pycnidiospores/ml were associated with higher CBS intensity and fruit drop and shorter incubation period than inoculations with lower concentrations. This work provides a better understanding of fruit stages and P. citricarpa inoculum concentrations most related to symptom expression and losses under natural conditions and may be helpful for improvement of CBS management in the São Paulo citrus belt. [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]

Chill hours availability influence break dormancy, sprouting and production of temperate fruits trees in different regions. However, there are few reports on the subject for fig tree. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the accumulated chilling hours on the physiology and dormancy release of fig cultivars. Stem cuttings of five fig cultivars were collected at the end of winter over two crop cycles and exposed to 0, 40, 80, 120 and 160 accumulated chilling hours (CH) in a cold chamber (8±0.5 ºC). Physiology of fig buds was then evaluated with regards to antioxidant enzymes activity, carbohydrate and nitrogen contents. The exposure of fig stem cuttings with two buds to different accumulated CH presented physiological changes for antioxidant enzymes activity, carbohydrates and nitrogen contents and confirming that the cultivars responded differently to the climatic conditions of each crop cycle. Results detected that the lowest accumulated CH in field in 2018 (2.7 CH) enabled a greater effect of the artificial CH when compared to 2017 (19.5 CH). Each fig cultivar had a critical accumulation point. The cultivars Roxo de Valinhos and Pingo de Mel require less CH to break dormancy, while Troyano requires more CH to finish this vegetative rest period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit pulp is an easily handled energy source for many frugivorous species but generally has little protein. Accordingly, ripe-fruit specialist primate species with diets dominated by fruit pulp risk protein deficiency. While some species use leaf and flower buds, young leaves, and arthropods as an alternative protein supplement, highly frugivorous spider monkeys (Ateles spp.) use protein-rich young leaves and/or fig fruits. However, not all spider monkey populations have access to abundantly available figs. Comparing infestation frequencies of fruits on trees with those eaten by spider monkeys, we tested the hypothesis that, under such circumstances, spider monkeys preferentially choose those nonfig fruits with pulp infested by insect larvae (a highly protein-rich resource). We predicted that: (i) a large proportion of plant species eaten by Ateles would have insect larvae-infested fruits; and (ii) Ateles would actively select infested fruits. We tested these predictions with Ateles chamek and Ateles marginatus on the banks of the Tapajós River, Brazil. Across a 13-month sampling period, we recorded 27 plant species in the diet of the 2 Ateles species. Of these, 23 (85%) had larvae-infested fruits when sampled; 11 species (40%) had high levels of individual fruits infested (35-78%). We used Ivlev Values to quantify selectivity for infested/uninfested fruits in 20 plant species. Infested fruits were positively selected in 12 species (60%), while aversion to infested fruits occurred in 4 species (20%). This covert carnivory/faunivory in spider monkeys is a largely overlooked aspect of their feeding ecology. This situation would be nearly impossible to ascertain from behavioral observations alone, showing the value of integrated, multimethod approaches. The strategy used by Ateles spp. on the banks of the Tapajós highlights the flexibility of primate foraging choices and the importance of indirect source of protein to ripe-fruit specialist primates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although spatial analysis of population genetic structure has been one of the most important ways to infer microevolutionary processes, these studies are usually focused on neutral dynamics and limited dispersal, interpreted under the theoretical reasoning of isolation-by-distance. More recently, however, there has been a growing interest on how environmental variation is also involved in population differentiation, both by direct effects of local adaptation and other processes related to environmentally or ecologically constrained dispersal. Here we evaluated patterns of genetic population structure and isolation-by-ecology, or environment (IBE), in Eugenia dysenterica DC (Myrtaceae), a fruit tree species of economic potential interest and widely distributed throughout the Central Brazil and endemic to the Cerrado biome (Neotropical savannas). We analyzed population structure using nuclear SSR markers for 736 individuals sampled from 23 localities (local population) and disentangled the effects of genetic molecular variation, estimated by pairwise FST (matrix G) and geographical distances (matrix S) into Grinnelian niche of populations (matrix E), based on climate and soil data. Spatial patterns in eigenvectors of G and E reveal northwest-southeast gradients, coherent with geographic range shifts after the Last Glacial Maximum. We used different forms of Mantel regression and correlation and redundancy analyses, as well as simulations of isolation-by-distance, to show that there is a significant partial correlation between G and E taking S into account, thus supporting the IBE process for E. dysenterica, in addition to other processes related to spatially constrained gene flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In dioecious, bee‐pollinated tree species, male and female flowers offer different resources. It is unclear how this unbalanced quantity and quality of floral resources affects flower visits and pollen transfer to female flowers. We asked, what characteristics of flowering and dynamics of resource production by trees favour flights of bees between male and female trees.We quantified the floral resources produced by individual flowers and entire trees of Myracrodruon urundeuva (Anacardiaceae), measured pollen flow to female flowers, fruit set of naturally pollinated flowers and determined the effective pollinators.Crown volume of male trees was four‐fold, flower number 15‐fold and nectar volume 60 times higher than in female trees. While ~70% of male flowers opened in the morning, ~70% of female flowers opened in the afternoon. Fruit set was 27%. Stingless bee species were the main pollinators, while honeybees were common only on male flowers.Strongly unbalanced production of floral resources, high potential lifespan of female flowers and anticipated opening of male flowers favour pollinator movement and pollen deposition on female flowers, albeit low (0.003% of pollen that reached stigmas), but sufficient to produce thousands of fruits per tree. Besides being an astonishing pollen and nectar source for numerous social bee species, only a few of them were effective pollinators. Our quantitative approach to floral resource production of each gender provides new insights, such as the proportion of resources allocated to each gender and the corresponding behaviour of flower visitors, for understanding the reproductive strategy of dioecious tropical mass‐flowering trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fig tree (Ficus carica L., Moraceae), which originated in the Mediterranean Basin, is one of the many fruit trees grown in Brazil, with 'Roxo-de-Valinhos' being the exclusively used cultivar. In this context, research aimed at the improvement of this species to develop highly resistant and adaptable cultivars is paramount. Thus, the present study aimed to maintain fig accessions in an in vivo active germplasm bank (AGB) at the Faculty of Engineering of Ilha Solteira (FEIS), São Paulo State University (UNESP), as well as to characterize the agronomic traits of these accessions based on quantitative descriptors of genetic parameters and observe gains with the selection of specific genotypes to illustrate the AGB in terms of genetic variability. A total of 36 F. carica genotypes were evaluated in the field at the Teaching, Research and Extension Farm (FEPE) of the FEIS, UNESP. Qualitative traits, fruit parameters (e.g., insertion of the first fruit, fruit stalk length, fruit length, fruit diameter, and average fruit mass), and accumulated plant dry mass were measured. In addition, genetic parameters, variance components, and descriptive statistics, including genetic and environmental variances, heritability and average heritability of clones, coefficients of genotypic and environmental variation and their ratio (CVg%/CVe %), general average, and selection gain, were evaluated. The selected fig tree accessions showed genetic variability in the assessed traits, exhibiting good heritability and achieving selection gains. For instance, the first 10 classified clones exhibited a heritability of 80.2% and achieved a selection gain of 98% for accumulated plant dry mass. Therefore, the maintenance of in vivo AGBs allows agronomic studies, offering promising results for continuing the breeding programs and preserving the genetic variability of species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit growing in Brazil enhances regional development, as it generates income and absorbs local labor. The Brazilian Northeast presents ideal edaphoclimatic conditions for the development of several fruit trees, mainly in irrigated areas. The objective was to analyze the educational level and the relationship between the wages of men and women employed in the fruit sector, in the Northeast region of Brazil. The selected crops were those of coconut, mango and grape, between the years 2001 to 2018; literacy rate and level of education in Brazil and the northeast region, the relationship between male and female genders, percentage of women in formal jobs in the years 2004 to 2015 and average monthly income in Brazil and the Northeast region and male and female genders in the years 2012 to 2015. There was a reduction in the area cultivated with coconut, however there was no increase in the area for mango and grape crops. Regarding the harvested area, the coconut crop showed a larger cultivated area, however, this area has been gradually reduced. In mango and grape crops, no variations were detected in the harvested areas. As for the average production, the grape crop has higher productivity. In the percentage of formal jobs, literacy and level of education of women, both nationally and regionally, there was a linear growth and higher than those of men. It is concluded that between men and women in the Northeast region, the salary difference was R$ 354.00, even with women with a higher educational level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inga ingoides (Rich.) Willd.) is a fruit tree used as food, reforesting and recovery of degraded areas. However, seeds of the genus Inga are recalcitrant and difficult to store. The physiological quality of seeds of I. ingoides stored in a fridge (5.0 ± 2°C) and ice chamber at 0.0 ± 2 and 15.0 ± 2°C during 28 days and the initial quality of seedlings for germination in a greenhouse and laboratory were evaluated. Assay was conducted in the Laboratory of Seed Analysis of the Department of Phytotechnicity and Phytohealth of the Universidade Estadual do Maranhão in São Luís MA Brazil. Fruits were harvested in São Luis, manually processed in the laboratory and retrieved for the germination and emergence (blank). Other seeds were conditioned in gerbox boxes and stored in a fridge (5°C and 47% relative humidity - RH); ice chamber (0.0°C and 49% RH) and ice chamber (15.0°C and 55% RH). Four tests were undertaken: water rate, germination, emergence, index of germination and emergence speed, length of seedlings at germination and emergence and dry weight of seedlings at germination and emergence. Storing of ingá seeds is feasible for two weeks in fridge without any loss of their physiological quality and placed to germinate in greenhouse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Campomanesia xanthocarpa is a fruit tree species of the Myrtaceae family with potential for fruit commercialization; however, studies on the genetic diversity and variability of the species are necessary to make it commercially viable. The objective of this study was to characterize the diversity and intrapopulation spatial genetic structure (SGS) of a C. xanthocarpa population and compare the genetic parameters of quantitative traits between and within open-pollinated progenies. For the analysis of genetic diversity, 80 individuals from a population in the Irati National Forest, Parana, Brazil, were analyzed. The observed (Ho) and expected (He) heterozygosity, fixation index (F), and intrapopulation spatial genetic structure (SGS) were assessed. To analyze the quantitative traits, a field progeny test was installed using a randomized block design with nine progenies, three blocks, and four plants per plot at a spacing of 9 m². Total height (H), basal diameter (dbase), crown length and diameter (Ccrown and dcrown) at two years and nine months of age were measured. For the studied population, Ho and He had an average of 0.478 and 0.717, respectively, with an average fixation index of 0.333, suggesting that the population may be suffering from inbreeding. We found linkage disequilibrium for one evaluated pair of loci. SGS suggested a minimum distance of 25 to 50 m between mother trees for seed collection. For the quantitative genetic analyses, we found that average heritability ranged of 0.15 to 0.55 being considered from moderate (dbase) to high (H, Ccrown and dcrown). The traits H and dcrown were particularly noteworthy and can be used to obtain superior genotypes for the other traits (dbase and Ccrown), since the correlation was significant and high (> 0.80). The results provide applicable information for the implementation of breeding and conservation programs for the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rootstocks modulate several characteristics of citrus trees, including vegetative growth, fruit yield and quality, and resistance or tolerance to pests, diseases, soil drought, and salinity, among other factors. There is a shortage of scion and rootstock cultivars among the combinations planted in Brazil. "Ponkan" mandarin and "Murcott" tangor grafted on "Rangpur" lime comprise the majority of the commercial mandarin orchards in Brazil. This low genetic diversity of citrus orchards can favor pest and disease outbreaks. This study aimed to evaluate the agronomic performance, Huanglongbing (HLB) tolerance, and fruit quality of "Emperor" mandarin on five different rootstocks for nine cropping seasons under the subtropical soil-climate conditions of the North region of the state of Paraná, Brazil. The experimental design was a randomized block, with six replications, two trees per block, and five rootstocks, including "Rangpur" lime, "Cleopatra," and "Sunki" mandarins, "Swingle" citrumelo, and "Fepagro C-13" citrange. The evaluations included tree growth, yield performance, fruit quality, and HLB disease incidence. "Emperor" mandarin trees grafted on "Rangpur" lime and "Swingle" citrumelo had early fruiting and high yield efficiency. "Rangpur" lime also induced the lowest tree growth, but low fruit quality. Trees on "Swingle" citrumelo and "Fepagro C-13" citrange showed low scion and rootstock affinity and produced fruits with high total soluble solids (TSS), with a lower number of seeds for those from trees on "Fepagro C-13" citrange. "Cleopatra" and "Sunki" mandarins induced higher juice content, while fruits from trees on "Cleopatra" also had higher TSS/titratable acidity (TA) ratio. "Emperor" mandarin trees were susceptible to HLB regardless of the rootstocks. Overall, "Cleopatra" and "Sunki" mandarins, "Swingle" citrumelo, and "Fepagro C-13" are more suitable rootstocks for "Emperor" mandarin under Brazilian subtropical conditions than "Rangpur" lime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Atlantic Forest is one of the most threatened tropical forests in the world, being drastically reduced, fragmented, and disturbed. The drastic process of anthropic occupation and exploitation of this biome has, in many cases, led to the introduction of exotic species, such as the jackfruits (Artocarpus heterophyllus). However, studies on the influence of jackfruits on the native biota are still scarce. Here we investigated the influence of fruit trees on the seed rain and early recruitment of seedlings in native remnants, comparing these patterns with those observed for a native species tapirira (Tapirira guianensis), which similarly to jackfruits, produces many fruits throughout the year, attracting a variety of frugivore species. Seed rain and seedlings observed under the jackfruits were both more abundant and equally rich to the assemblages reported under the native tapirira trees. In both species, co-specifics comprise a large part of the number of seeds (> 70%) and seedlings (> 45%) individuals and, although they attract similar seed assemblages, seedling composition diverge, particularly when co-specifics are excluded. We reported that jackfruits can attract a diverse seed and seedling assemblages, and we find no evidence that the presence of jackfruits negatively affects the arrival and initial recruitment of native plant species in the study area. These results should be analyzed with caution but considered when evaluating costs and benefits of management options to control exotic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caçari is a fruit tree that is native to the Amazon region of Brazil. The fruit is considered to have the highest vitamin C content of any edible fruit (13.757 mg 100 g-1 dry weight). The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of 2,4-D and 6-BAP alone or in combination on in vitro callus induction and pro-embryogenic mass formation in caçari stem segments in different culture media as a precursor for caçari micropropagation. The experiment consisted of two culture media (MS and WPM) and combinations of four concentrations of 2,4-D (0, 1, 2 and 4 mg L-1) and BAP (0, 0.25, 0.5 and 1 mg L-1). The results showed that the highest percentage of callus formation (99%) was obtained in WPM supplemented with 4 mg L-1, 2,4-D and 1 mg L-1 BAP, and this combination resulted in 93% pro-embryogenic mass formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth of tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.) trees is increasing in Brazil due to their adaptability to the Northeast region of the country and because their fruits can be used for several purposes. However, tamarind is grown with little specific growth cultural practices, which is essential to improve the commercial exploration of this species, including seedling production processes, which are important to reach high yields, mainly for fruit tree species. Therefore, the objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of pre-germinative treatments and different substrates on the growth of tamarind seedlings. The experiment was conducted in a protected environment at the Federal University of Campina Grande, Pombal, Paraíba, Brazil. A randomized block experimental design with 6 replications was used, with a 5×4 factorial arrangement. The first factor was the pre-germinative treatments: mechanical scarification with sandpaper and 24-hour imbibition in water; integument incision and imbibition in water for 24 hours; 24-hour imbibition in water; 24-hour imbibition in water with Trichoderma harzianum; and 24-hour imbibition in water with Trichoderma longibrachiatum. The second factor was the substrates: 100% soil; soil + commercial substrate (3:2 v v-1); soil + manure bovine (3:2 v v-1); and soil + caprine manure (3:2 v v-1). The tamarindseedlings showed the best growth rates when using substrates formulated with caprine manure and soil. The use of the pre-germinative treatment with imbibition in water with Trichoderma spp. stimulated the growth of tamarind seedlings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pears are the most imported fruit from Brazil and thus, being an important opportunity to Brazilian growers. However, there are still some problems that restrict pear production, such as the lack of suitable rootstocks. The aim of this study was to assess growth, yield efficiency and fruit quality of ‘William’s’ pear grafted on quinces ‘Champion’ and ‘Melliforme’ and P. calleryana. The experiment was performed during 2009/2010 growing season at the Centro Agropecuário da Palma, FAEM/UFPel. The experimental design was a completely randomized block with three replications per treatment. The assessed parameters were trunk cross sectional area, shoot length, yield efficiency, number of fruit per tree, soluble solids, flesh firmness, fruit weight and fruit size. It was found that ‘William’s’ pear is more efficient and less vigorous when grafted on ‘Champion’ quince, thus being a potential scion x rootstock combination for commercial pear planting at medium densities. Moreover, fruit of trees grafted on quince rootstocks accumulated higher amount of soluble solids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit flies are among the main groups of phytophagous insects. Their larvae, when feeding on the pulp or seeds of the host fruits, can cause rot and favor the entrance of pathogens. Thus, the objectives of this study was: (1) To know the trophic associations between species of parasitoids and fruit flies in the Parque Nacional da Serra da Bodoquena (PNSB)-MS, Brazil. (2) To inventory the parasitoid species associated with fruit flies in fruit trees in the Parque Nacional da Serra da Bodoquena. Monthly expeditions were carried out (From Jan 2017 to Feb 2018) in order to collect the fruits and obtain the fruit flies (Tephritidae) and their respective parasitoids. The collected fruits were transported to the laboratory of frugivorous insects (LIF) of the Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados (UFGD)-MS. The fruit fly larvae were daily collected and placed in transparent acrylic cups containing sterilized sand, where they remained till the emergence of adults and their parasitoids. Twenty-Three adult Tephritid parasitoids were recovered, represented by two species of Braconidae: Doryctobracon areolatus (18) and Utetes anastrephae (5), both infesting Anastrepha species: Anastrepha fraterculus, A. sororcula and A. striata in Myrtaceae: Psidium guajava and Eugenia myrcianthes. Doryctobracon areolatus and Utetes anastrephae are reported for the first time parasiting Anastrepha species in Eugenia myrcianthes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The objective of the present study was the selection of peach cultivars with greater adaptability and production stability for the tropics through multivariate analysis. A randomized plot design with 17 cultivars ('Aurora-1'; 'Biuti'; 'Centenário'; 'Delicioso Precoce'; 'Diamante'; 'Doçura-2'; 'Douradão'; 'Dourado-2'; 'Flordaprince'; 'Jóia-3'; 'Kampai', 'Libra'; 'Maravilha'; 'Okinawa'; 'Ouromel-4'; 'Régis' and 'Tropical') was evaluated from 2013 to 2016. The following variables were evaluated during the production cycle each year: the average date for the beginning of harvest (BH), the phenotypic values for the period between pruning and the beginning of harvest (development cycle, DC), the number of fruits per tree (NF), the accumulated production (P. kg. tree−1) and the estimated accumulated productivity (P. t. ha−1). The fruit length (L) and fruit diameter (D) were measured (mm) in addition to the fruit mass (FM) and stone mass (SM) in grams (g). The ratio between the soluble solids and titratable acidity (SS/TA) was also calculated. To evaluate the multivariate analysis by the cluster analysis method, the cultivars were grouped into three different groups for the Tocher and canonical variables and two groups for the UPGMA method (unweighted pair group method using arithmetic averages). Among the studied variables, DC and P. t. ha−1 were for adaptability and stability performance, and 'Kampai' had general adaptability and the highest stability for DC and P. t. ha−1. By the analysis of the selection index, the best cultivars were 'Aurora-1', 'Centenário', 'Douradão', 'Kampai' and 'Régis'. The cultivars 'Aurora-1', 'Douradão', 'Kampai' and 'Régis' were the most adaptable and stable regarding precocity and productivity for peach production in the tropics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New researches have stimulated a large reevaluation of species with regards to the use of fruits from native plants. Araçá (a small Brazilian guava-like fruit) is found scattered in the wild in Pernambuco/Brazil. There is a scarcity of detailed studies on such regional fruit trees, especially the Psidium araça Raddi species, whereas there is an enormous possibility to explore the potential offered by these fruits, such as in the field of gastronomy, where the search for new ingredients and exotic flavors associated with functional properties has been increasing. This article aimed to evaluate the physical, physicochemical and taxonomic characterization of araçá obtained from different agricultural regions of Pernambuco in order to investigate the possibility of developing new products from this native fruit. The taxonomic identification confirmed that all collected material belonged to the species P. araçá Raddi. An average weight of 7.45 g/fruit was observed. With respect to pH, values between 3.17 and 3.48 were found, and the acidity as a percentage of citric acid was on the order of 0.96% to 0.99%. It was shown that the P. araça Raddi fruit has a desirable quality for the food industry, presenting excellent conditions for the development of formulations of high commercial value and promising application in the national gastronomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hancornia speciosa Gomes is a fruit tree native to Brazil with potential for use in cropping systems. The objective of this study was to characterize accessions of a germplasm collection by evaluating agronomic traits. The collection was planted in 2005, in an experiment with 57 progenies and four replications, totaling 192 individual accessions from 29 natural subpopulations of four botanical varieties, from the Brazilian Cerrado. The components of variance were estimated using the restricted maximum likelihood (REML) procedure. Heritability coefficients show the potential of the collection as base population for selection programs. The trait number of fruits per plant presented the highest estimated selection gain. The accessions of H. speciosa var. cuyabensis are the ones with the greatest potential for selection based on plant size and productivity. Progenies with greater development in the juvenile phase are potentially more productive in the adult phase, allowing the early selection of superior genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The homogenization of fire regimes in a landscape may imply a temporal reduction in the availability of resources, such as flowers and fruits, which affect the fauna, as well as ecosystem services. We hypothesized that maintaining mosaic burning regimes, and thereby pyrodiversity, can diversify phenological patterns, ensuring year-round availability of flowers and fruits. Here we monitored open grassy tropical savanna phenology under different historical fire frequencies and fire seasons in a highly heterogeneous landscape in an Indigenous Territory in Brazil. We evaluated phenological patterns of tree and non-tree plants through monthly surveys over three years. These two life forms responded differently to climate and photoperiod variables and to fire. Different fire regimes led to a continuous availability of flowers and fruits, due to the complementarity between tree and non-tree phenologies. Late-season fires are supposed to be more devastating, but we did not detect a significant reduction in flower and fruit production, especially under moderate fire frequency. However, late burning in patches under high frequency resulted in a low availability of ripe fruits in trees. The fruiting of non-tree plants in patches under low fire frequency and early burning ensure ripe fruit, when there are practically no trees fruiting in the entire landscape. We conclude that maintaining a seasonal fire mosaic should be prioritized over historical fire regimes, which lead to homogenization. Fire management is best conducted between the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the dry season, when the risk of burning fertile plants is lower. • Phenological knowledge is fundamental for fire management planning. • Historical fire regimes configured a resilient landscape in the Kadiwéu Indigenous Territory. • Homogenizing fire regimes can be extremely dangerous to flowering and fruiting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

'Esmeralda' is an orange fleshed peach cultivar primarily used for juice extraction and secondarily used for the fresh fruit market. Fruit yield and quality depend on several local environmental and managerial factors, mainly on nitrogen, which must be balanced with other nutrients. Similar to other perennial crops, peach trees show carryover effects of carbohydrates and nutrients and of nutrients stored in their tissues. The aims of the present study are (i) to identify the major sources of seasonal variability in fruit yield and qu Fruit Tree Department of Federal University of Pelotas (UFPEL), Pelotas 96010610ality; and (ii) to establish the N dose and the internal nutrient balance to reach high fruit yield and quality. The experiment was conducted from 2014 to 2017 in Southern Brazil and it followed five N treatments (0, 40, 80, 120 and 160 kg N ha−1 year−1). Foliar compositions were centered log-ratio (clr) transformed in order to account for multiple nutrient interactions and allow computing distances between compositions. Based on the feature ranking, chilling hours, degree-days and rainfall were the most influential features. Machine learning models k-nearest neighbors (KNN) and stochastic gradient decent (SGD) performed well on yield and quality indices, and reached accuracy from 0.75 to 1.00. In 2014, fruit production did not respond to added N, and it indicated the carryover effects of previously stored carbohydrates and nutrients. The plant had a quadratic response (p < 0.05) to N addition in 2015 and 2016, which reached maximum yield of 80 kg N ha−1. In 2017, harvest was a failure due to the chilling hours (198 h) and the relatively small number of fruits per tree. Fruit yield and antioxidant content increased abruptly when foliar clrCu was >−5.410. The higher foliar P linearly decreased total titratable acidity and increased pulp firmness when clrP > 0.556. Foliar N concentration range was narrow at high fruit yield and quality. The present results have emphasized the need of accounting for carryover effects, nutrient interactions and local factors in order to predict peach yield and nutrient dosage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Amazon region represents more than a half of all tropical forests in the world, and has been threatened by many anthropogenic activities, including several kinds of timber harvesting. The reduced-impact logging (RIL) is considered a less destructive method of timber harvesting, but there is a general lack of information about the effects on Amazonian invertebrates, including butterflies. We investigated the effect of RIL on fruit-feeding butterflies by comparing canopy and understory between an area under RIL and a control area without RIL. The canopy fauna is different and significantly richer than the understory fauna, showing that sampling only the lower strata underestimates the diversity of fruit-feeding butterflies. The effects of RIL were mainly detected in the understory butterfly assemblage, as significant differences were observed in species composition within this stratum. Effects of the RIL regime, which include tree cutting, skid trails and roads openings, are stronger in the understory than in the canopy, explaining the reported differences. Despite the detectable effects of RIL on the composition of fruit-feeding butterfly assemblages, the overall diversity was not affected. A similar pattern has been detected in many other groups, indicating that a noticeable part of the diversity of many taxa could be preserved in areas under RIL management. Therefore, in view of the problems of creating protected areas in the Amazon, RIL is a good alternative to preserve fruit-feeding butterflies and surely many other taxa, and it might be a desirable economic alternative for the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The jabuticaba tree (Brazilian grape tree) is a tree native to Brazil that belongs to the Myrtaceae family. The jabuticaba fruit is used in some regions of Brazil to produce juices, jams, wine, and ice cream. In this work, the fermentation conditions (temperature and °Brix) for producing jabuticaba distillate were optimized using the response surface methodology (RSM). The optimal conditions for fermentation were found to be 20 °C and 22 °Brix. In repeated experiments to validate the model, experimental data exhibited good agreement with the predicted data. The distillate jabuticaba beverage showed a peculiar chemical composition with 20 volatile compounds that were identified and quantified. Isoamyl alcohols (2-methyl-1-butanol + 3-methyl-1-butanol) were the most abundant volatile compounds identified in jabuticaba spirit. Sensory analysis by tasters showed overall approval of jabuticaba distillate. In principal component analysis, when the beverage was evaluated by panelists under 24 y old tended to give favorable ratings of aroma and taste, as well as high overall scores. The group of panelists between the ages of 25 and 53 y old generally gave high marks for appearance in the principal component analysis. This study describes the study of fermentation conditions of jabuticaba pulp for production of jabuticaba spirit. Based on the results of this work, the proposed method can be an alternative for the use of the jabuticaba fruit, and may provide a new industrial outlet for this fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study of the first record of Litargus tetraspilotus in Brazil. A beating tray was used to collect the fruit tree species at Colégio Agrícola Estadual Augusto Ribas orchard in Ponta Grossa, Paraná from July 2004 and August 2006. The metabolic activities of the L. tetraspilotus larvae were reduced during the ecdysis process. Based on the observations during the inventory period, the distribution of the species among the fruit trees sampled was not equal. Results also indicate a negative tendency between relative air humidity and the number of individuals.

A challenge in establishing agroforestry systems is ensuring that farmers are interested in the tree species, and are aware of how to adequately manage these species. This challenge was tackled in the Atlantic Rainforest biome (Brazil), where a participatory trial with agroforestry coffee systems was carried out, followed by a participatory systematisation of the farmers experiences. Our objective was to identify the main tree species used by farmers as well as their criteria for selecting or rejecting tree species. Furthermore, we aimed to present a specific inventory of trees of the Leguminosae family. In order to collect the data, we reviewed the bibliography of the participatory trial, visited and interviewed the farmers and organised workshops with them. The main farmers’ criteria for selecting tree species were compatibility with coffee, amount of biomass, production and the labour needed for tree management. The farmers listed 85 tree species; we recorded 28 tree species of the Leguminosae family. Most trees were either native to the biome or exotic fruit trees. In order to design and manage complex agroforestry systems, family farmers need sufficient knowledge and autonomy, which can be reinforced when a participatory methodology is used for developing on-farm agroforestry systems. In the case presented, the farmers learned how to manage, reclaim and conserve their land. The diversification of production, especially with fruit, contributes to food security and to a low cost/benefit ratio of agroforestry systems. The investigated agroforestry systems showed potential to restore the degraded landscape of the Atlantic Rainforest biome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Caatinga is the property of Revista Caatinga 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.)

The red mombin (Spondias purpurea L.) is a tropical fruit tree belonging to the family Anacardiaceae. Among the main obstacles to its development as a commercial culture: lack of a system of cultivation, inadequate post-harvest management of fruits and, especially, the absence of selected clones under regional conditions climate and soils. Therefore, this study was to evaluate the production of clones of red mombin germplasm bank of the IPA and characterize its fruits on the physico-chemical aspects at the North Forest Zone of Pernambuco, Brazil. The average annual production is 11.16 kg plant-1 with the highest result obtained by IPA clone-6 with 17.62 kg plant-1. The average weight of the fruit is 10.16 g. All clones had pulp yield around 70%. The average ratio of TSS/TTA ratio is 23.25. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aimed to analyze how the extractivist population use and conserve the Hancornia speciosa Gomes remainders in the state of Sergipe (Northeastern Brazil). The research methodology was predominantly qualitative, consisting of the surveying of primary (structured and semi-structured interviews, participative analysis) and secondary data, organized to constitute a general exploration picture, valuing the conservation action plans, use and commercialization of remainder crops. The data was analyzed focusing on the characteristics of the Hancornia speciosa Gomes female collectors already depicted in the literature (Mota e Silva Júnior, 2003; Mota et al., 2003a e b). The genre perspective and the past/present relation were also considered in the analysis. The main conclusions show that they have been able to manage the genetic resources of that species, through a traditional handling perspective that combines action and knowledge (according to the natural resources features, seasons, access to remainders etc.) in a context of increasing valuation of the fruit in both local and regional markets, but also considering the threats (tourism, agriculture and real estate speculation). [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]

Citrus sudden death (CSD) has greatly affected sweet orange cultivars grafted on Rangpur lime in São Paulo and Minas Gerais States, Brazil. To characterize and quantify CSD damage, fruit yield and quality were assessed in each combination of sweet orange cultivar (Hamlin, Pera, Natal, and Valencia), age class (3 to 5, 6 to 10, and 11 to 15 years old), and CSD severity class (0 = no symptom, 1 = initial symptoms, and 2 = severe symptoms). For each combination, 10 trees were harvested and 20 fruit were taken for quality analysis. Damage was characterized by reduction of: (i) total weight of fruit/tree (36 and 67% for severity class 1 and 2, respectively), (ii) number of fruit/tree (27 and 55%), (iii) fruit size (13 and 25% in diameter and height [stem to styler distance]), (iv) fruit weight (32 and 56%), (v) total soluble solids (TSS)/fruit (18 and 42%), and increase of (vi) Brix (14 and 34%), (vii) acidity (16 and 41%), and (viii) TSS/90-lb. box (21 and 33%). There was no alteration on Brixlacidity ratio and percentage of juice on fruit of affected trees. Sweet orange cultivars did not differ in percentage of reduction or increase of all yield and quality variables, with the exception of Pera, which expressed increases of Brix and acidity. For more severe affected trees, the youngest plants showed a higher reduction in fruit number/tree, whereas plants 6 to 10 years old showed a higher increase in fruit acidity and TSS/box. However, no differences in percentage of reduction or increase for other variables were observed among different age classes. The damage to the above probably was associated with reduced water absorption capacity of CSD-affected trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus huanglongbing (HLB, ex greening) is one of the most serious and destructive citrus diseases in the world. It is caused by a phloem-limited and nonculturable bacterium, ‘Candidatus Liberibacter’. The disease occurs in some Asian and African countries and recently has been reported in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Analysis of the 16S ribosomal (r)DNA of the HLB bacteria from orchards in São Paulo revealed the presence of two distinct strains of ‘Ca. Liberibacter’. One of them, named LSg1 (Liberibacter sequence group 1), was 100% identical to strains from Japan (GenBank accessions AB038369 and AB008366), the Asian forms of the bacteria. The other, LSg2, is genetically distant from the Asian (96.1 to 96.3% identity) and African (95.8 to 96.1% identity) strains. Comparison of the 16S rDNA sequences from the LSg2 and the Asian strain revealed the presence of INDELs and point mutations. Specific primers designed for this Brazilian Liberibacter strain revealed that it is more widely distributed throughout the São Paulo orchards compared with the LSg1 strain. The HLB symptoms caused by both strains are almost identical and, interestingly, both strains were found in the same sample, revealing mixed infection in a citrus plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The aim of this study was to analyze eight selected species of leaves, used in the traditional medicine of the Northeast region of Brazil obtained from several fruit trees (grageru, soursop, jambolanum, passion fruit, insulin, nogueira, pedra ume kaá and stévia), regarding their polyphenols contents and antioxidant activity. Condensed and hydrolysable tannins, phenolics and flavonoids contents were determined and the antioxidant activities measured by ABTS, FRAP and ORAC assays. Organic acids were analyzed by HPLC-DAD system. Phenolic compounds of aqueous and ethanolic extracts were determined by UHPLC-DAD-MS. The results revealed high contents of total phenolics (13.34 ± 0.19 – 127.65 ± 0.21 mg.g−1 of GAE:QE (2:1) of sample) and flavonoids (12.30 ± 0.42 – 71.79 ± 0.00 mg.g−1 QE of sample). The ABTS results exhibited extraordinary activity in the extracts (74.48 ± 6.23 – 1487.33 ± 2.67 µmol Trolox.g−1 of sample). Acids quinic, tartaric, citric, gallic, chlorogenic, p-coumaric, ferulic and vanillic along with naringenin, rutin, vanillin, catechin, epicatechin, kaempferol were the most important compounds. Thus, these leaves extracts may be considered as sources of phenolics compounds having a high potential as natural antioxidants. In addition, the polyphenols present in these leaves have many beneficial effects and can also be used in medicinal and nutraceuticals products with enhanced bioactivities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Urban food forestry initiatives in Brazil are quite recent and focus on tree planting. • Brazilian Urban Forestry Master Plans generally do not consider food production. • Science-based, participatory debates led to more robust policies on urban forestry. • A case study showed the great potential of urban forests to improve food security. • There are still many challenges to advance urban food forestry in Brazil. Urban forests play an important role for urban dwellers, providing environmental, social and economic services. One of these benefits is the capacity of trees to provide food, an aspect which as the potential to increase food security that has been gaining increasing attention over the past few years. However, there is currently limited information about urban food forests in Brazil. The present study aims to provide an overview of urban food forestry (UFF) in the country evaluating different aspects. Thirty different initiatives were analysed, and the stakeholders and activities involved in the initiatives were evaluated. Moreover, 58 Urban Forestry Master Plans (UFMPs) were analysed, in order to evaluate whether the municipalities considered food production from urban trees. Most of the analysed initiatives (79 %) include activities related to fruit tree planting in the city, being the municipalities (79 %) the main responsible for such initiatives. Regarding the UFMPs, only 12 municipalities (i.e. 24 %) considered human food consumption from urban fruit trees. In order to quantify the food production potential from urban trees in a municipality with high vulnerability to food insecurity, a detailed study with 3 different scenarios was carried out in Uchoa, São Paulo. Trees located on Uchoa's streets would have the capacity to provide up to 63.7 % of the caloric deficit of the municipality in the best scenario. These findings demonstrate the potential of UFF to tackle food insecurity and highlight the need of a better reflection of this approach in public policies, such as UFMPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diaphorina citri, the Asian citrus psyllid and insect-vector of huanglongbing (HLB) disease of citrus, has been reported in São Paulo State (SPS) in 1942. HLB and the associated bacteria (Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus and Ca. L. americanus) were detected in 2004 and, immediately, Fundecitrus recommended HLB management by the classic three-pronged system (TPS): (i) insecticide control of the psyllid population, (ii) reduction of liberibacter inoculum by removal of symptomatic trees and (iii) use of healthy trees for resets. In 2012, eight years later, large farms in which a rigorous TPS has been practiced have an HLB incidence of less than 1% symptomatic trees a year and they account for a total area of ca. 200,000 ha. This surface can probably be doubled in the years to come. The successful HLB management by the TPS must be continued in SPS not only during the next 5 to 10 years, if not 10 to 15 years, required to develop HLB-resistant, genetically modified citrus (GMC) trees, but also afterwards, when GMC trees will hopefully be available. The low-HLB farms, with a high percentage of healthy trees, represent the "hard-core-orchards" on which the future of the SPS citrus industry will be constructed. They offer appropriate conditions for hosting not only the GMC trees (option 1), but also for the uninterrupted production of regular, non-GMC trees in spite of HLB (option 2) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

*remise of the study: We developed and characterized microsatellite markers for Byrsonima crassifolia (Malpighiaceae), a widely distributed neotropical fruit tree. * Methods and Results: Eight polymorphic and two monomorphic microsatellite loci were identified and screened in 60 samples from four geographically disparate populations (Bolivia, Brazil, Mexico, and Panama). Each locus exhibited between two and 11 alleles. Expected heterozygosity ranged from 0 to 0.839. All loci amplify in the congeners B. variabilis and B. basiloba , four amplify in B. bucidaefolia, and seven amplify in B. variabilis, although levels of polymorphism have not been assessed. * Conclusions: These loci will provide novel tools for comparing genetic diversity present in cultivated and noncultivated populations of B. crassifolia throughout its range, and may prove valuable in related species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]