Spongy tissue in Alphonso mango - significance of in situ seed germination events.

Abstract

Spongy tissue (internal breakdown) of Alphonso mango is a physiological disorder that effects the fruit mesocarp without any external symptoms, posing a challenge for its export. Extensive studies conducted over the past several years on various aspects including physiological and biochemical changes in the fruit mesocarp, failed to provide any conclusive evidence for the origin of the malady. A major shift of focus from mesocarp to the seed indicated that the recalcitrant nature of the seed signals the initiation of in situ germination events at fruit maturity. The consequent physiological and biochemical events associated with it, influence spongy tissue formation. The results showed that drain of water and Ca2+ from the mesocarp to the seed during the process of germination deprive it of the same leading to formation of the spongy tissue in Alphonso mango.