Pineapple breeding at Cirad : II. Evaluation of "Scarlett", a new hybrid for the fresh fruit market, as compared to "Smooth Cayenne"

Coppens D'Eeckenbrugge, Géo; Marie, Franck

Pineapple breeding at Cirad : II. Evaluation of "Scarlett", a new hybrid for the fresh fruit market, as compared to "Smooth Cayenne"

2000

Coppens D'Eeckenbrugge, Géo | Marie, Franck

'Scarlett', a clone selected from a 'Smooth Cayenne' x 'Manzana' progeny was tested against 'Smooth Cayenne' in Martinique, following an experimental design composed of 50-plant plots, with four replications organised in bivarietal blocks, and repeated six times at a two-month interval. Planting material consisted of 300-350 g suckers, produced from 3,000 vitroplants of each cultivar. 'Scarlett' shows less vegetative development than 'Smooth Cayenne', as expressed in D leaf weight and suckering. The plant is more compact and erect, with completely smooth leaves. Fruits are smaller, which is partially compensated by a better response to floral induction, a much shorter production cycle and more uniformity in fruit weight. The crown is lighter but long and erect. Although peduncle is longer in 'Scarlett', lodging is less frequent than in 'Smooth Cayenne'. Fruit quality is much better, externally as well as internally, with a uniformly bright orange to red colour, a regular and cylindrical shape, flat and relatively large eyes, a uniform golden yellow firm flesh. Core is thinner and flesh texture is less fibrous and crispier. It is sweet and savoury, with a sugar content above that of 'Smooth Cayenne', and comparable acidity values. Ascorbic acid content is higher, The internal gradient of maturity is much less marked than in 'Smooth Cayenne'. Unfortunately, 'Scarlett' seems more susceptible to Penicilliumfuniculosum attacks. A proliferation of slips was observed, which seems to bc an effect of the preliminary in vitro multiplication phase. (Résumé d'auteur)

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