Development in the maturation of fruits and seeds of Annatto (Bixa orellana L.)

Abstract

Determining the extent of maturity of the fruits and seeds, using indices of maturation is required for the harvest is conducted at the right time. This work was carried out to study the maturation of seeds Urucuzeiro green rind variety based on determining the best time to harvest the fruit and the content of bixin. The collection was made in Bonfim settlement in Alagoinha-PB, which were started at 15 days after anthesis (DAA) and lasted until 150 DAA, and being evaluated the colorings, the dimensions, the water content contained in the fruits and seeds, as well as the physiological quality and the content of bixin seeds. The data of the water content of the fruits and seeds were adjusted to quadratic models in which the formation starting amount of water present therein was above 80%. According to the data obtained it was found that the physiological maturity of seeds occurred after 91-103 days after anthesis, harvest may be performed until 120 DAA as the time from this seed losses occurred due to the opening of the clusters fruits and bixin where the maximum percentage was found in the amount of 1.62%.