Abstract

The effect of Avocado sunblotch viroid (ASBVd) on the postharvest quality was studied in avocado (Persea americana Miller) Hass fruits from five classes: healthy fruits from healthy trees (C1), asymptomatic fruits from asymptomatic but infected trees (C2), asymptomatic fruits from symptomatic trees (C3), symptomatic fruits severity rating of 1 (C4) and symptomatic fruits severity rating of 2 (C5) harvested in 2011 and 2012. The postharvest parameters evaluated were: firmness, color, weight loss, dry matter, mineral and oil content. C4 and C5 were significantly different (Tukey, p = 0.05) in delayed ripening, less dark coloration and less weight loss compared to C1, C2 and C3. Firmness in C4 and C5 was harder (2-5.5 Newtons) on the eighth day, while C1, C2 and C3 was softer (< 2 Newtons) and reached it on the sixth day. Coloration in C1, C2 and C3 was black on the eighth day, whereas in C4 and C5 remained 75% obscure. Weight loss in C4 and C5 was 1.4 g/day whereas in C1, C2 and C3 was 2 g/day. Dry matter, mineral and oil content were similar in the five classes. ASBVd affected the postharvest quality of symptomatic fruits. Asymptomatic fruits satisfied the international quality standards.

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