[Fruit cracking: a review].

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Plant Pathology
• Horticulture

Background:

• Fruit cracking is a widespread physiological disorder affecting numerous fruit crops, leading to substantial economic losses and resource wastage.
• Susceptibility to cracking is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, physical, and biochemical fruit characteristics.
• Environmental conditions and orchard management practices significantly impact the incidence and severity of fruit cracking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of fruit cracking mechanisms.
• To consolidate research on factors influencing fruit cracking susceptibility.
• To provide a reference for developing effective prevention and control strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific studies on fruit cracking.
• Analysis of correlations between fruit traits and cracking incidence.
• Examination of environmental and management factors affecting fruit cracking.

Main Results:

• Fruit cracking is linked to genetic factors, fruit size, shape, growth rate, water content, and skin properties.
• Environmental variables such as temperature, light, and rainfall play a crucial role.
• Orchard management practices, including irrigation, shading, mineral nutrition, and growth regulators, influence cracking.

Conclusions:

• Fruit cracking is a multifactorial issue requiring a comprehensive approach for management.
• Further research into the identified correlations can lead to targeted interventions.
• This review serves as a foundation for future studies and practical applications in mitigating fruit cracking.