In situ characterization of soursop (Annona muricata L.) in the Soconusco region, Chiapas, Mexico

Soursop fruit is highly appreciated for its organoleptic and medicinal characteristics and for its diversity in industrialization; however, there are no varieties generated in Mexico, even though it is believed that there is great diversity of this species in the country. This study aimed to assess the variability among soursop fruits grown in four municipalities of the Soconusco region, Chiapas, based on their physical and chemical characteristics, and to propose some materials for fresh consumption or industry use. Twentyeight trees propagated from seed and approximately 10 years of age were selected at each commercial orchard. Six fruits at physiological maturity were collected from each tree; then they were ripened and some quality characteristics, functional metabolites and antioxidant activity were evaluated. The population showed high variability (between 42 and 135 %) in fruit, pulp, seed and rachis weight, as well as in the chromaticity in pulp and peel, total soluble solids, total sugars and antioxidant activity. The formation of four groups was determined, where groups 1 and 2 (Tapachula and Huehuetan trees) had the fruits with the best productivity characteristics, namely greater weight and fruit size, while the fruits of groups 3 and 4 (Mazatan and Cacahoatan trees) were characterized by better flavor characteristics, a higher contribution of functional metabolites and greater antioxidant activity. Size, nutraceutical properties, peel chromaticity and brightness, sugars content and fruit acidity are important variables that helped to detect variability in soursop fruits.