Fruto de Palma [Opuntia fícus-indica (L) MILLER, Cactaceae]: Morfologia, Composição Quimica, Fisiologia, Índices de Colheita e Fisiologia Pós-Colheita

Abstract

Opuntia fícus-indica (L) Miller is a fruit cultivated in tropical and subtropical America and in the Mediterranean, but little known in Brazil as human food resource. It is largely consumed in Europe and in the United States. Despite its high international value and natural ability to grow in xenophile environments, O. fícus-indica (L) Miller cultivation for fruit production is still rudimentary in Brazil due to the lack of knowledge of its potentials. To fill this gap, this paper revisited its morphological characters, chemical composition, physiology, harvest rates and postharvest physiology of the Brazilian cultivated species. It is a non climacteric fruit with low metabolic activity, which development cycle takes place between 70 and 100 days after bloom; the edible portion corresponds to 45% of the fruit, with smooth and pleasant organoleptic characteristics and nutritional value similar to most fruits, being also considered a good Ca, P, Mg and K supply; physical damage due to post-harvest mishandling are the main cause of deterioration, especially those resulting of the removal of the prickles. Depending on the variety, it shows exceptional tolerance to low temperatures. Thus, it is feasibly cultivated in Brazil, both for domestic consumption and export. However, improved researches with the most widely cultivated varieties in the country are necessary to enhance knowledge and make it available to ordinary consumption.