Abstract:

‘Okubo’peach (Prunus persica L.Batsch) fruits were treated with exogenous ethylene(50–80 μl/L) at different time points (0, 15 and 30 d) during modified atmosphere (MA) storage. Respiration, ethylene release and pigment alternation of peach fruits were monitored. Results showed that the respiration intensity and ethylene release rate of peach fruits without application of exogenous ethylene were low and no obvious alterations were observed during MA storage. However, exogenous ethylene treatment stimulated the synthesis of endogenous ethylene and improved respiration intensity of peach fruits during MA storage. An earlier treatment with exogenous ethylene for peach fruits induced an earlier and higher peak for respiration intensity and ethylene release. Exogenous ethylene treatment also promoted the degradation of chlorophyll and inhibited the rapid decline of carotenoids in peach peel so that peach fruits exhibited normal color. All of these investigations indicated that exogenous ethylene treatment had a significant effect on alleviating chilling-injuries of peach fruits. Due to the dual effects on inhibiting chilling-injuries and accelerating caducity of peach fruits using exogenous ethylene treatment, the best time to apply exogenous ethylene should be at 30 days after MA storage.

Key words: exogenous ethylene, ethylene release, respiration intensity, chlorophyll, carotenoids