Estudo do desenvolvimento de flores e caracterização físico-química de frutos de pinheira (Annona squamosa L.)

Abstract

The sugar apple (Annona squamosa L.), also known as sweetsop, is a tropical fruit tree that belongs to the Annonaceae family, which importance has grown in the Brazilian fresh fruit market. The Northeastern region stands out in the national production of sugar apple, with approximately 70 % of total production. In Alagoas, this species found favorable conditions to crop, mainly in the county of Palmeira dos Indios, Estrela de Alagoas and Igaci. As sugar apple is a fruit produced mainly to the fresh market, studies to ensure a long shelf-life are essential. This study aimed to investigate the producing behavior of the sugar apple in Maceió, Brazil, during the rainy and dry seasons, and to study the post-harvest conservation of the fruits at different storage temperatures (18°C, 21°C, 24°C and 27°C) covered with or without PVC film. The results showed that only in the dry season it was possible to produce marketable quality fruits. The postharvest conservation of the fruits was positively influenced by lower temperature associated to the use of PVC film, improving quality of the fruits and prolonging its shelf life.