Grant Information
| Knowledge Area | Subject of Investigation | Field of Science | Percent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 503 - Quality Maintenance in Storing and Marketing Food Products | 1099 - Tropical/subtropical fruit, general/other | 1060 - Biology (whole systems) | 15% |
| 503 - Quality Maintenance in Storing and Marketing Food Products | 999 - Citrus, general/other | 1060 - Biology (whole systems) | 15% |
| 202 - Plant Genetic Resources | 1099 - Tropical/subtropical fruit, general/other | 1080 - Genetics (excludes breeding) | 10% |
| 203 - Plant Biological Efficiency and Abiotic Stresses Affecting Plants | 1099 - Tropical/subtropical fruit, general/other | 1081 - Breeding | 10% |
| 204 - Plant Product Quality and Utility (Preharvest) | 1099 - Tropical/subtropical fruit, general/other | 1060 - Biology (whole systems) | 10% |
| 204 - Plant Product Quality and Utility (Preharvest) | 999 - Citrus, general/other | 1060 - Biology (whole systems) | 10% |
| 205 - Plant Management Systems | 1099 - Tropical/subtropical fruit, general/other | 1060 - Biology (whole systems) | 10% |
| 205 - Plant Management Systems | 999 - Citrus, general/other | 1060 - Biology (whole systems) | 10% |
| 212 - Pathogens and Nematodes Affecting Plants | 1099 - Tropical/subtropical fruit, general/other | 1081 - Breeding | 10% |
Situation: In California, the subtropical fruit industries are under economic pressure to maximize the productivity potential while minimizing the inputs into the agricultural and marketing system. Purpose: CE program is focused on problem solving research and the development of practical solutions and information that can be used directly by Californias citrus and avocado industries to ultimately enhance fruit quality reaching the consumer. Approach: Various approaches are utilized in the execution of this project. These include, but are not limited to, field and packinghouse research projects focused on the identification of the causes of postharvest loss and development of remedial actions. This includes the continued development of research methodologies to document the impact of these practices on eating quality. This includes conducting sensory testing in conjunction when appropriate with volatile analysis. Another significant component of this project is the improvement of avocado varietal material available to the California industry. Through the avocado scion breeding program we anticipate the identification of improved plant material that will be superior in fruit quality, seasonality, postharvest handling as well as productivity and pest and disease resistance.
This 100% CE position works closely with two subtropical commodities, citrus and avocados, on matters of grower education, communication and research assessment. Research is focused on problem solving and the development of practical solutions and information that can be used directly by both industries. Major goals are as follows:
The approaches that will be taken will be varied and include both replicated field and laboratory work. We will follow standard approaches except where noted below. All data, when appropriate will be analyzed using accepted methods and if required, after consultation with a biometrician. Whenever possible and in response to particular needs, new methods will be developed. 1. Continuation of the avocado scion breeding program. This involves standard field evaluation methodologies including development of postharvest storage information. Collaboration with others to determine parentage through microsatellite or SNP markers will be pursued. 2. Continuation of avocado and citrus postharvest research and extension activities. Will continue to optimize handling practices such as waxing and treatment with fungicides or fumigants on citrus postharvest quality. Will continue research focused on discerning the factors involved in the development of avocado flavor and strategies to maximize flavor and texture quality. 3. Continue research on citrus and avocado postharvest quality with emphasis on sensory quality development during fruit maturation and postharvest handling. Research approach will include gas chromatograpy/olfactometry to identify odor-active volatiles. This will be linked to sensory analysis using standard methods including hedonic testing and difference testing. 4. Continuation of research on 7-carbon sugar metabolism and the limiting factors to carbon assimilation in avocado. This research will continue using analytical methods for identification of the pathway leading to 7C synthesis. We will utilize standard biochemical techniques and proteomics for identification of key enzymes involved in these processes. 5. Continue educational activities. Continue to provide information through various means including web-based outreach to Advisors and subtropical fruit industries. 6. Continue Advisor consultation as needed and providing Advisors with timely information in area of expertise. This will be accomplished through traditional means (visits etc.) as well as taking advantage of advances in electronic communication.
Target Audience
The target audience for my applied research program is the grower and packer community within California and the United States as well as county advisors and other statewide specialists. I also work directly with grower supported organizations such as the California Avocado Commission, the California Avocado Society and the Citrus Research Board when suitable. I have or currently serve on education outreach committees for both organizations. I have served as an interface between these organizations and UC whenever appropriate.
Changes / Problems
We experienced severe lack of funds for the avocado breeding program. This hampered our ability to grow the program and release material in a timely manner. We are currently actively seeking renewed funding from other sources.
Training & Professional Development
Provided post-doctoral research and staff research associate opportunity to attend Avcoado Brainstorming 2015 and 2018, an international meeting of avocado researchers. Also provided opportunity for both to attend 2015 World Avocado Congress in Peru. Provided opportunity for staff research associate to attend ISHS meeting in Istanbul, Turky in 2018.
Dissemination Streams
Postharvest information is disseminated to communities of interest primarily through participation in UC Postharvest Center outreach events such as the Postharvest Ripening Workshop and the Postharvest Technology Shortcourse. Numerous talks at citrus and avocado grower meetings which are jointly sponsored by UCCE and commodity boards.
Next Reporting Steps
Nothing Reported