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Abstract
Gamma irradiation up to 100 Kilorad (Krad) caused no immediate visual damage to fruits of avocado (Persea americana Mill.). Twenty Krad or more stimulated a climacteric-like rise in respiratory rate. Rates of ethylene (C2H4) production were related directly to dose up to 40 Krad. Ten and 40 Krad delayed the climacteric peak for 3 days. Softening was delayed by 10 Krad and hastened by 40 and 100 Krad. At 100 Krad, ripening was lacking and the fruit severely injured. No benefit remained from any dose after 3 weeks of storage. Storage reduced the time required for ripening by 2 days, and enhanced the development of injury symptoms and pigment degradation.
in
HortScience