Pitahaya (Hylocereus ocamponis)-Peel and -Flesh Flour Obtained from Fruit Co-Products-Assessment of Chemical, Techno-Functional and In Vitro Antioxidant Properties.

The aim of this work was to assess the chemical composition and physico-chemical, techno-functional, and in vitro antioxidant properties of flours obtained from the peel and flesh of pitahaya (Hylocereus ocamponis) to determine their potential for use as ingredients for food enrichment. The chemical composition, including total betalains, mineral content, and polyphenolic profile, was determined. The techno-functional properties (water holding, oil holding, and swelling capacities) were also evaluated. For the antioxidant capacity, four different methodologies, namely ferrous ion-chelating ability assay, ferric-reducing antioxidant power assay; 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging ability assay, and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radical assay, were used. Pitahaya-peel flour had higher values for protein (6.72 g/100 g), ash (11.63 g/100 g), and dietary fiber 56.56 g/100 g) than pitahaya-flesh flour, with values of 6.06, 3.63, and 8.22 g/100 g for protein, ash, and dietary fiber, respectively. In the same way, pitahaya peel showed a higher content of minerals, betalains, and polyphenolic compounds than pitahaya-flesh flour, with potassium (4.43 g/100 g), catechin (25.85 mg/g), quercetin-3-rhamnoside (11.66 mg/g) and myricetrin (12.10 mg/g) as principal compounds found in the peel. Again, pitahaya-peel flour showed better techno-functional and antioxidant properties than pitahaya-flesh flour. The results obtained suggest that the flours obtained from the peel and pulp of pitahaya (H. ocamponis) constitute a potential material to be utilized as an ingredient in the food industry due to the high content of bioactive compounds such as betalains, phenolic acids, and flavonoids, with notable antioxidant capacity.

Supercritical extraction of betalains from the peel of different pitaya species.

BACKGROUND: Pitaya is a fruit with high consumer acceptance and health benefits. Pitaya peel is a waste product with potential in the food industry, as an antioxidant enrichment and natural colouring. Therefore, there is an interest in recovering its constituents and searching for pitaya species with greater potential. This work aimed to obtain bioactive extracts from the dried peel of pitaya fruits of the species Selenicereus monacanthus (Lem.), S. costaricensis W. and S. undatus H. using supercritical fluids at different pressures (100, 250 and 400 bar) and ethanol-water 15% v/v or ethanol 100% as co-solvents. The extraction yield, antioxidant activity, colour and total betalain content were evaluated. RESULTS: The extract obtained from S. monacanthus showed the highest extraction yield (49.6 g kg-1), followed by S. costaricensis (27.5 g kg-1) and S. undatus (17.7 g kg-1) at 400 bar and 35 °C using ethanol 15%, v/v. The antioxidant capacity was strongly influenced by pressure, favouring the obtaining of betalain-rich extracts at higher pressures, especially in the species S. costaricensis (0.6 g kg-1) and S. monacanthus (0.3 g kg-1). To improve the extraction of S. undatus (the most cultivated species), the procedure of subsequential extractions was applied. This procedure considerably increased the extraction yield, antioxidant activity and total content of betalains. The use of ethanol 100% provided more bioactive fractions and achieved a good separation of betalains. CONCLUSION: The supercritical extraction method can overcome the challenge of efficiently extracting compounds from pitaya peel, due to the presence of bioactive compounds of great polarity. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

First Report of Gray Mold Caused by Botrytis cinerea on Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus undatus) in Mexico.

The dragon fruit is native of Mexico, and Puebla is the third-largest producing state (SIAP 2023). In June 2023, field sampling was conducted in El Paraíso, Atlixco (18° 49' 5.275" N, 98° 26' 52.353" W), Puebla, Mexico. The mean temperature and relative humidity were 20 °C and 75% for seven consecutive days. Dragon fruits cv. 'Delight' close to harvest with gray mold symptoms were found in a commercial area of 2 ha, with an incidence of 35 to 40% and an estimated severity of 75% on infected fruit. The symptoms included necrosis at the apex, which later spread throughout the fruit, along with a soft, black rot covered in abundant mycelium and sporulation. The fungus was isolated from 40 symptomatic fruits by disinfesting pieces of necrotic tissue with 3% NaClO for one minute, rinsing with sterile distilled water (SDW), plating on Petri dishes with potato dextrose agar, and incubating at 25 °C in the dark. One isolate was obtained from each diseased fruit by the hyphal-tip method. The colonies were initially white with a growth rate of 1.15-1.32 cm per day and turned gray after 10 days; the mycelium was dense and aerial. Spherical and irregular sclerotia were formed, measuring 0.9-1.4 × 0.6-1.1 mm (n = 100). Each Petri dish produced 56-278 sclerotia (n = 40) after 11 days; these were initially white and gradually turned dark brown. Brown to olive conidiophores were straight, septate, and branched, measuring 1075-1520 × 10-21 µm, with elliptical hyaline to light brown conidia of 6.6-11.5 × 5-8.1 µm (n=100). The isolates were tentatively identified as Botrytis cinerea based on morphological characteristics (Ellis 1971). Two representative isolates were chosen for molecular identification and genomic DNA was extracted by the CTAB protocol. The ITS region and the heat shock protein (HSP60), RNA polymerase binding II (RPB2) and glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (G3PDH) genes were sequenced (White et al. 1990; Staats et al. 2005). The sequences of a representative isolate (BcPh5) were deposited in GenBank (ITS-OR582337; HSP60-OR636622; RPB2-OR636623; and G3PDH-OR636621). BLAST analysis of the partial sequences of ITS (479 bp), HSP60 (1006 bp), RPB2 (1126 bp), and G3PDH (907 bp) showed 100% similarity to B. cinerea isolates (GenBank: KM840848, MH796663, MK919495, MF480679). Phylogenetic analysis confirmed that BcPh5 clustered with B. cinerea strains. Pathogenicity was confirmed by inoculating the non-wounded surface of 20 detached dragon fruits cv. 'Delight' using the BcPh5 isolate by depositing 20 µl of a 105 conidia/ml suspension with a sterile syringe. The fruits were placed on the rim of a plastic container and inserted in a moisture box with 2 cm of water at the bottom. The box was covered with a plastic sheet to maintain humidity. Control fruits were inoculated with SDW. The inoculated fruits became covered with abundant white to gray mycelium, and soft rot developed within eight days, while no symptoms were observed on the controls. The fungus was re-isolated from the inoculated fruits as described above, fulfilling Koch's postulates. The pathogenicity tests were repeated three times. Gray mold caused by B. cinerea was also recently reported in Mexico on pomegranate (Hernández et al. 2023) and rose apple (Isodoro et al. 2023). As far as we know, this is the first report of B. cinerea causing gray mold on dragon fruit in Mexico. This research is essential for designing integrated management strategies against gray mold on dragon fruits.

Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Other Health Effects of Dragon Fruit and Potential Delivery Systems for Its Bioactive Compounds.

Dragon fruit (Hylocereus genus) has the potential for the prevention of diseases associated with inflammatory and oxidative processes. We aimed to comprehensively review dragon fruit health effects, economic importance, and possible use in delivery systems. Pubmed, Embase, and Google Scholar were searched, and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis) guidelines were followed. Studies have shown that pitaya can exert several benefits in conditions such as diabetes, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer due to the presence of bioactive compounds that may include vitamins, potassium, betacyanin, p-coumaric acid, vanillic acid, and gallic acid. Moreover, pitaya has the potential to be used in food and nutraceutical products as functional ingredients, natural colorants, ecologically correct and active packaging, edible films, preparation of photoprotective products, and additives. Besides the importance of dragon fruit as a source of bioactive compounds, the bioavailability is low. The development of delivery systems such as gold nanoparticles with these compounds can be an alternative to reach target tissues.

Stem transcriptome screen for selection in wild and cultivated pitahaya (Selenicereus undatus): an epiphytic cactus with edible fruit.

Dragon fruit, pitahaya or pitaya are common names for the species in the Hylocereus group of Selenicereus that produce edible fruit. These Neotropical epiphytic cacti are considered promising underutilized crops and are currently cultivated around the world. The most important species, S. undatus, has been managed in the Maya domain for centuries and is the focus of this article. Transcriptome profiles from stems of wild and cultivated plants of this species were compared. We hypothesized that differences in transcriptomic signatures could be associated with genes related to drought stress. De novo transcriptome assembly and the analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) allowed us to identify a total of 9,203 DEGs in the Hunucmá cultivar relative of wild Mozomboa plants. Of these, 4,883 represent up-regulated genes and 4,320, down-regulated genes. Additionally, 6,568 DEGs were identified from a comparison between the Umán cultivar and wild plants, revealing 3,286 up-regulated and 3,282 down-regulated genes. Approximately half of the DEGs are shared by the two cultivated plants. Differences between the two cultivars that were collected in the same region could be the result of differences in management. Metabolism was the most representative functional category in both cultivars. The up-regulated genes of both cultivars formed a network related to the hormone-mediated signaling pathway that includes cellular responses to auxin stimulus and to hormone stimulus. These cellular reactions have been documented in several cultivated plants in which drought-tolerant cultivars modify auxin transport and ethylene signaling, resulting in a better redistribution of assimilates.

Different storage conditions and 1-methylcyclopropyl in pitaya post-harvest conservation / Diferentes condições de armazenamento e1-metilciclopropeno na conservação pós-colheita de pitaia

Fast perishability of dragon fruit requires that strategies be adopted to extend its post-harvest shelf life, in order to reduce losses,maintain quality and increase the financial return of economic activity. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of storage conditions in combination with the application of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) on the quality maintenance of red dragon fruit. The treatments evaluated were cold storage (CS; 21 kPa O2+ 0.03 kPa CO2), controlled atmosphere (CA; 2 kPa O2+ 5 kPa CO2) and modified atmosphere (MA; 40 µm thick low-density polyethylene bags) combined or not with the application of 1-MCP (300nL.L-1), with four replications per treatment. The fruits of all treatments were stored for 20 days at 13 ± 2°C and relative humidity (RH) of 90 ± 5%, followed by 3 days of exposure at ambient conditions (20 ± 3°C and RH of 70 ± 5%). After the shelf life,CA and MA maintained fruits with a higher hue angle. The treatment of 1-MPC added to CA and MA provided greater force for pulp penetration. CS, AC and MA, added to the treatment with 1-MCP, are promising technologies to be used in the storage of dragon fruit.(AU)

A rápida perecibilidade dos frutos de pitaia exige que sejam adotadas estratégias para prolongar sua vida útil em pós-colheita, a fim de reduzir perdas, manter a qualidadee aumentar o retorno financeiro da atividade econômica. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito de condições de armazenamento em combinação com a aplicação de 1-metilciclopropeno (1-MCP) sobre a manutenção da qualidade de pitaia vermelha. Os tratamentos avaliados foram armazenamento refrigerado (AR; 21 kPa O2+ 0,03 kPa CO2), atmosfera controlada (AC; 2 kPa O2+ 5 kPa CO2) e atmosfera modificada (AM; bolsas de polietileno de baixa densidade de 40 µm de espessura) combinados ou não coma aplicação de1-MCP (300 nL.L-1), com quatro repetições por tratamento. Os frutos de todos os tratamentos foram armazenados durante 20 dias a 13 ± 2°C e umidade relativa (UR) de 90 ± 5% seguidos de 3 dias de exposição em condições ambiente (20 ± 3°C e URde 70 ± 5%). Após o período de prateleira, AC e AM mantiveram frutos com maior ângulo hue. O tratamento de 1-MPC somado a AC e AM proporcionou maior força para penetração da polpa. O AR, a AC e a AM, somadas ao tratamento com 1-MCP, são promissoras tecnologias a serem empregadas no armazenamento de pitaia.(AU)

Elaboration and Characterization of Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADESs): Application in the Extraction of Phenolic Compounds from pitaya.

In this paper, natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) with lactic acid, glycine, ammonium acetate, sodium acetate, and choline chloride were prepared with and without the addition of water. NADES formation was evaluated using FTIR and Raman, where hydrogen bonds were identified between the hydroxyl group of lactic acid and the amino and carboxyl groups of glycine. Acetate and ammonium ions were also identified as forming bonds with lactic acid. The addition of water did not cause changes in the vibrational modes of the FTIR and Raman spectra but contributed to a reduction in NADES viscosity and density. Viscosity ranged from 0.335 to 0.017 Pa s-1, and density ranged from 1.159 to 0.785 g mL-1. The best results for the extraction of phenolic compounds from pitaya (dragon fruit) were achieved with an organic solvent (450. 41 mg 100 g-1 dry bases-db) in comparison to NADESs lactic acid:glycine (193.18 mg 100 g-1 db) and lactic acid:ammonium acetate (186.08 mg 100 g-1 db). The antioxidant activity of the extracts obtained with the NADESs was not statistically different from that of the extract obtained with organic solvents.

Effect of mixed organic and inorganic fertilizers on growth, leaf macronutrient contents and yield of pitaya(Hylocereus undatus) under field conditions / Efeito da combinação de fertilizantes orgânicos e inorgânicos no crescimento, conteúdo de macronutrientes nas folhase rendimento de pitaya (Hylocereus undatus) emcondições de campo

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the pitaya’s Hylocereus undatusperformance under field conditions. The experimental design used was Completely Randomized Block Design (CRBD). Five treatments consisting of the four different fertilizer dosages were included in this study, namely T1 (00-120-320-120); T2 (04-080-160-080); T3 (06-060-100-060); T4 (08-000-000-000) and T5 (Control: 00-000-000-000) of bovine manure (kg pit-1), urea (g pit-1), super simple (g pit-1) and potassium chloride (g pit-1), respectively. Parameters such as height, number, length, width, area, and volume of the cladodes were assessed at 20 and 320 days after planting. The number of fruits produced and mineral composition (N, K, Ca, Mg, P, and S) of H. undatusplants were also assessed. The results on morphometric characteristics of the cladodes, macronutrient composition and fruit yield have been recorded with higher values in treatments 3 and 4. However, according to the principal component analysis performed, treatment 3 was the one that correlated with the evaluated characteristics. The results have clearly indicatedthe importance of combination of adequate dose of mineral and organic fertilizer for better vegetative performance and yield of pitaya crop.

Este estudo tevepor objetivoavaliar o efeito defertilizantes orgânicos e inorgânicos sobre o desempenho da pitayaHylocereus undatusem condições de campo.O delineamento experimental utilizado foi Delineamento emBlocos Completamente Casualizados (DBC).Foram incluídos neste estudo cinco tratamentos constituídos por quatro diferentes dosagens de fertilizantes, nomeadamente T1 (00-120-320-120); T2 (04-080-160-080); T3 (06-060-100-060); T4 (08-000-000-000) e T5 (Controle: 00-000-000-000) de estercobovino (kg cova-1), ureia (g cova-1), super simples (g cova-1) e cloreto de potássio (g cova-1), respectivamente. Parâmetros como altura, número, comprimento, largura, área e volume dos cladódios foram avaliados aos 20 e 320 dias após oplantio.O número de frutos produzidos e a composição mineral (N, K, Ca, Mg, P, e S) das plantas H. undatusforam também avaliados. Os resultados sobre as características morfométricas dos cladódios, composição de macronutrientes e rendimento de frutos foram registados com valores mais elevados nos tratamentos 3 e 4. No entanto, de acordo com a análise dos componentes principais (PCA) realizada, o tratamento 3 foi o que mais se correlacionou com as características avaliadas. Os resultados indicaram claramente a importância da combinação de doses adequadas de fertilizante mineral e orgânico para um melhor desempenho vegetativo e rendimento da cultura da pitaya.

Effect of mixed organic and inorganic fertilizers on growth, leaf macronutrient contents and yield of pitaya(Hylocereus undatus) under field conditions / Efeito da combinação de fertilizantes orgânicos e inorgânicos no crescimento, conteúdo de macronutrientes nas folhase rendimento de pitaya (Hylocereus undatus) emcondições de campo

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the pitayas Hylocereus undatusperformance under field conditions. The experimental design used was Completely Randomized Block Design (CRBD). Five treatments consisting of the four different fertilizer dosages were included in this study, namely T1 (00-120-320-120); T2 (04-080-160-080); T3 (06-060-100-060); T4 (08-000-000-000) and T5 (Control: 00-000-000-000) of bovine manure (kg pit-1), urea (g pit-1), super simple (g pit-1) and potassium chloride (g pit-1), respectively. Parameters such as height, number, length, width, area, and volume of the cladodes were assessed at 20 and 320 days after planting. The number of fruits produced and mineral composition (N, K, Ca, Mg, P, and S) of H. undatusplants were also assessed. The results on morphometric characteristics of the cladodes, macronutrient composition and fruit yield have been recorded with higher values in treatments 3 and 4. However, according to the principal component analysis performed, treatment 3 was the one that correlated with the evaluated characteristics. The results have clearly indicatedthe importance of combination of adequate dose of mineral and organic fertilizer for better vegetative performance and yield of pitaya crop.(AU)

Este estudo tevepor objetivoavaliar o efeito defertilizantes orgânicos e inorgânicos sobre o desempenho da pitayaHylocereus undatusem condições de campo.O delineamento experimental utilizado foi Delineamento emBlocos Completamente Casualizados (DBC).Foram incluídos neste estudo cinco tratamentos constituídos por quatro diferentes dosagens de fertilizantes, nomeadamente T1 (00-120-320-120); T2 (04-080-160-080); T3 (06-060-100-060); T4 (08-000-000-000) e T5 (Controle: 00-000-000-000) de estercobovino (kg cova-1), ureia (g cova-1), super simples (g cova-1) e cloreto de potássio (g cova-1), respectivamente. Parâmetros como altura, número, comprimento, largura, área e volume dos cladódios foram avaliados aos 20 e 320 dias após oplantio.O número de frutos produzidos e a composição mineral (N, K, Ca, Mg, P, e S) das plantas H. undatusforam também avaliados. Os resultados sobre as características morfométricas dos cladódios, composição de macronutrientes e rendimento de frutos foram registados com valores mais elevados nos tratamentos 3 e 4. No entanto, de acordo com a análise dos componentes principais (PCA) realizada, o tratamento 3 foi o que mais se correlacionou com as características avaliadas. Os resultados indicaram claramente a importância da combinação de doses adequadas de fertilizante mineral e orgânico para um melhor desempenho vegetativo e rendimento da cultura da pitaya.(AU)

Effect of mixed organic and inorganic fertilizers on growth, leaf macronutrient contents and yield of pitaya(Hylocereus undatus) under field conditionsronutrient contents and yield of pitaya(Hylocereus undatus) under field conditions / Efeito da combinação de fertilizantes orgânicos e inorgânicos no crescimento, conteúdo de macronutrientes nas folhase rendimento de pitaya (Hylocereus undatus) emcondições de campo

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the pitaya's Hylocereus undatusperformance under field conditions. The experimental design used was Completely Randomized Block Design (CRBD). Five treatments consisting of the four different fertilizer dosages were included in this study, namely T1 (00-120-320-120); T2 (04-080-160-080); T3 (06-060-100-060); T4 (08-000-000-000) and T5 (Control: 00-000-000-000) of bovine manure (kg pit-1), urea (g pit-1), super simple (g pit-1) and potassium chloride (g pit-1), respectively. Parameters such as height, number, length, width, area, and volume of the cladodes were assessed at 20 and 320 days after planting. The number of fruits produced and mineral composition (N, K, Ca, Mg, P, and S) of H. undatusplants were also assessed. The results on morphometric characteristics of the cladodes, macronutrient composition and fruit yield have been recorded with higher values in treatments 3 and 4. However, according to the principal component analysis performed, treatment 3 was the one that correlated with the evaluated characteristics. The results have clearly indicatedthe importance of combination of adequate dose of mineral and organic fertilizer for better vegetative performance and yield of pitaya crop.(AU)

Este estudo tevepor objetivoavaliar o efeito defertilizantes orgânicos e inorgânicos sobre o desempenho da pitayaHylocereus undatusem condições de campo.O delineamento experimental utilizado foi Delineamento emBlocos Completamente Casualizados (DBC).Foram incluídos neste estudo cinco tratamentos constituídos por quatro diferentes dosagens de fertilizantes, nomeadamente T1 (00-120-320-120); T2 (04-080-160-080); T3 (06-060-100-060); T4 (08-000-000-000) e T5 (Controle: 00-000-000-000) de estercobovino (kg cova-1), ureia (g cova-1), super simples (g cova-1) e cloreto de potássio (g cova-1), respectivamente. Parâmetros como altura, número, comprimento, largura, área e volume dos cladódios foram avaliados aos 20 e 320 dias após oplantio.O número de frutos produzidos e a composição mineral (N, K, Ca, Mg, P, e S) das plantas H. undatusforam também avaliados. Os resultados sobre as características morfométricas dos cladódios, composição de macronutrientes e rendimento de frutos foram registados com valores mais elevados nos tratamentos 3 e 4. No entanto, de acordo com a análise dos componentes principais (PCA) realizada, o tratamento 3 foi o que mais se correlacionou com as características avaliadas. Os resultados indicaram claramente a importância da combinação de doses adequadas de fertilizante mineral e orgânico para um melhor desempenho vegetativo e rendimento da cultura da pitaya.(AU)

Nutritional quality and technological potential of pitaya species / Qualidade nutricional e potencial tecnológico de espécies de pitaya

Hylocereus costaricensis, H. undatus, and H. megalanthus are pitaya species produced and marketed in Brazil. The cultivation of this fruit has increased in recent years owing to its attractive appearance and sweet taste, and it may be either consumed fresh or processed for beverages and desserts. Studies on the biochemical traits and antioxidant capacity of these species can contribute to the development of new pitaya cultivars for fresh consumption and/or industrial processing. Sugars and organic acids were extracted from fruit, separated, and quantified using a chromatographic system. Total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity were quantified by spectrophotometric analysis using the Folin-Ciocalteu assay and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging, respectively. The data were subjected to analysis of variance and the Tukeys test. H. undatus presented 9.83% of the total sugars, distributed as 4.75% glucose and 5.08% fructose. Total sugar concentration for H. megalanthus was 5.93%, with 0.99%, 3.25%, and 1.69% of glucose, fructose, and sucrose, respectively, and was the only species containing sucrose. The concentrations of organic acids for H. costaricensis, H. undatus, and H. megalanthus were 0.83%, 0.71%, and 0.62% for malic acid and 0.37%, 0.36%, and 0.40% for citric acid, respectively. Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) was not detected in the pulp samples. H. costaricensis had the highest content of total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity, 33.75 mg gallic acid equivalents 100 g-1 and 175.51 μmol Trolox equivalent antioxidant activity 100 g-¹, respectively. Thus, the consumption of H. megalanthus fruits is recommended for people who require carbohydrate-restricted diets, although sensorially it seems to have the sweetest pulp, probably owing to the presence of sucrose. H. undatus pulp is interesting for the desserts and beverages industry [...].(AU)

As espécies Hylocereus costaricensis, Hylocereus undatus e Hylocereus megalanthus estão entre as espécies de pitayas mais produzidas e comercializadas no Brasil. O cultivo dessa fruta tem aumentado nos últimos anos devido à sua aparência atraente e sabor adocicado, podendo ser consumida in natura ou processada para bebidas e sobremesas. Estudos sobre as características bioquímicas e capacidade antioxidante da polpa dessas espécies podem contribuir para o desenvolvimento de novas cultivares de pitaya visando o consumo fresco e/ou processamento industrial. Os açúcares e ácidos orgânicos foram extraídos e, posteriormente, separados e quantificados em sistema cromatográfico. A quantificação do conteúdo fenólico total e da capacidade antioxidante foi realizada por análise espectrofotométrica utilizando o método de Folin-Ciocalteu e o ensaio de sequestro de radicais DPPH, respectivamente. Os dados foram submetidos ao teste F utilizando ANOVA, teste de Tukey e análise dos componentes principais. H. undatus apresentou 9,83% de açúcares totais, distribuídos na forma de 4,75% de glicose e 5,08% de frutose. A concentração total de açúcar para H. megalanthus foi de 5,93%, com 0,99, 3,25 e 1,69% para glicose, frutose e sacarose, respectivamente, sendo a única a ter sacarose. As concentrações de ácidos orgânicos para as espécies H. costaricensis, H. undatus e H. megalanthus foram: 0,83, 0,71 e 0,62% para ácido málico e 0,37, 0,36 e 0,40% para ácido cítrico, respectivamente. O ácido ascórbico (vitamina C) não foi detectado nas polpas. H. costaricensis teve o maior teor de conteúdo fenólico total e capacidade antioxidante, 33,75 mg GAE 100 g-¹ e 175,51 μmol TEAC 100 g-¹, respectivamente. Assim, recomenda-se o consumo de frutos da espécie H. megalanthus para as pessoas que necessitam de dietas com restrição de carboidratos, embora sensorialmente pareça ser a polpa mais doce entre elas, provavelmente devido à presença de sacarose. A polpa de H. undatus é [...].(AU)

Nutritional quality and technological potential of pitaya species / Qualidade nutricional e potencial tecnológico de espécies de pitaya

Hylocereus costaricensis, H. undatus, and H. megalanthus are pitaya species produced and marketed in Brazil. The cultivation of this fruit has increased in recent years owing to its attractive appearance and sweet taste, and it may be either consumed fresh or processed for beverages and desserts. Studies on the biochemical traits and antioxidant capacity of these species can contribute to the development of new pitaya cultivars for fresh consumption and/or industrial processing. Sugars and organic acids were extracted from fruit, separated, and quantified using a chromatographic system. Total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity were quantified by spectrophotometric analysis using the Folin-Ciocalteu assay and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging, respectively. The data were subjected to analysis of variance and the Tukey’s test. H. undatus presented 9.83% of the total sugars, distributed as 4.75% glucose and 5.08% fructose. Total sugar concentration for H. megalanthus was 5.93%, with 0.99%, 3.25%, and 1.69% of glucose, fructose, and sucrose, respectively, and was the only species containing sucrose. The concentrations of organic acids for H. costaricensis, H. undatus, and H. megalanthus were 0.83%, 0.71%, and 0.62% for malic acid and 0.37%, 0.36%, and 0.40% for citric acid, respectively. Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) was not detected in the pulp samples. H. costaricensis had the highest content of total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity, 33.75 mg gallic acid equivalents 100 g-1 and 175.51 μmol Trolox equivalent antioxidant activity 100 g-¹, respectively. Thus, the consumption of H. megalanthus fruits is recommended for people who require carbohydrate-restricted diets, although sensorially it seems to have the sweetest pulp, probably owing to the presence of sucrose. H. undatus pulp is interesting for the desserts and beverages industry [...].

As espécies Hylocereus costaricensis, Hylocereus undatus e Hylocereus megalanthus estão entre as espécies de pitayas mais produzidas e comercializadas no Brasil. O cultivo dessa fruta tem aumentado nos últimos anos devido à sua aparência atraente e sabor adocicado, podendo ser consumida in natura ou processada para bebidas e sobremesas. Estudos sobre as características bioquímicas e capacidade antioxidante da polpa dessas espécies podem contribuir para o desenvolvimento de novas cultivares de pitaya visando o consumo fresco e/ou processamento industrial. Os açúcares e ácidos orgânicos foram extraídos e, posteriormente, separados e quantificados em sistema cromatográfico. A quantificação do conteúdo fenólico total e da capacidade antioxidante foi realizada por análise espectrofotométrica utilizando o método de Folin-Ciocalteu e o ensaio de sequestro de radicais DPPH, respectivamente. Os dados foram submetidos ao teste F utilizando ANOVA, teste de Tukey e análise dos componentes principais. H. undatus apresentou 9,83% de açúcares totais, distribuídos na forma de 4,75% de glicose e 5,08% de frutose. A concentração total de açúcar para H. megalanthus foi de 5,93%, com 0,99, 3,25 e 1,69% para glicose, frutose e sacarose, respectivamente, sendo a única a ter sacarose. As concentrações de ácidos orgânicos para as espécies H. costaricensis, H. undatus e H. megalanthus foram: 0,83, 0,71 e 0,62% para ácido málico e 0,37, 0,36 e 0,40% para ácido cítrico, respectivamente. O ácido ascórbico (vitamina C) não foi detectado nas polpas. H. costaricensis teve o maior teor de conteúdo fenólico total e capacidade antioxidante, 33,75 mg GAE 100 g-¹ e 175,51 μmol TEAC 100 g-¹, respectivamente. Assim, recomenda-se o consumo de frutos da espécie H. megalanthus para as pessoas que necessitam de dietas com restrição de carboidratos, embora sensorialmente pareça ser a polpa mais doce entre elas, provavelmente devido à presença de sacarose. A polpa de H. undatus é [...].

Metabolic profile of pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus (F.A.C. Weber) Britton & Rose) by UPLC-QTOF-MSE and assessment of its toxicity and anxiolytic-like effect in adult zebrafish.

Pitaya is a Cactacea with potential for economic exploitation, due to its high commercial value and its functional components - such betalains, oligosaccharides and phenolic compounds. Although the biological activities of pitaya have been studied using in vivo and in vitro models (anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative activities, as example), its anxiolytic-like effect is still unexplored. Therefore, the aim of this work was to perform a characterization of pulp and peel of pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus (F.A.C. Weber) Britton & Rose) using UPLC-QTOF-MSE, and to assess its toxicity and anxiolytic-like effect in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio). The results showed 16 and 15 compounds (in pulp and peel, respectively), including maltotriose, quercetin-3-O-hexoside, and betalains, putatively identified by UPLC-QTOF-MSE. Thus, pitaya pulp and peel showed no toxicity in both models tested (Vero cell lines and zebrafish model, LC50 ˃ 1 mg/mL); and a significant anxiolytic activity, since the treated fish reduced the permanence in the clear zone (Light & Dark Test) compared to that in the control, exhibiting anxiolytic-simile effect of diazepam. However, these effects were reduced by pre-treatment with the flumazenil suggesting that the pulp and peel of pitaya are anxiolytics agents mediated via the GABAergic system. These findings suggested that H. polyrizhus has the potential of developing an alternative plant-derived anxiolytic therapy. In addition, pitaya peel (which is a waste in the food industry) should be regarded as a valuable product, which has the potential as an economic value-added ingredient for anxiety disorders.

Effects of probiotics on the content and bioaccessibility of phenolic compounds in red pitaya pulp.

This study assessed the effects of the incorporation of Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-05 or Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis BB-12 in the content and bioaccessibility of phenolics in red pitaya pulp. The oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) of the dialyzed (bioaccessible) fraction of red pitaya pulp fermented by these probiotics was also assessed. After 48 h of cultivation in red pitaya pulp, the pH and sugar contents decreased, while organic acids and viable counts of the tested probiotics increased (p < 0.05). After exposure to simulated gastrointestinal conditions the viable counts of L. acidophilus LA-05 and B. lactis BB-12 in fermented red pitaya pulp were close to 8 and 7 log CFU/mL, respectively. Fermentation with probiotics decreased (p < 0.05) the contents of phenolic acids and flavonoids in red pitaya pulp. Both, L. acidophilus LA-05 and B. lactis BB-12 increased the presence of phenolics in the non dialyzed fraction of the red pitaya pulp. The bioaccessibility of catechin, epigallocatechin gallate, and procyanidin B2 increased (p < 0.05) in red pitaya pulp fermented by L. acidophilus LA-05 or B. lactis BB-12. The bioaccessible fraction of red pitaya pulp fermented by L. acidophilus LA-05 or B. lactis BB-12 showed higher antioxidant activity than that of the non-fermented red pitaya pulp. These findings indicate the fermentation of red pitaya by probiotics as an alternative to increase the bioaccessibility of specific phenolics, as well as the antioxidant activity in this fruit.

Influência da temperatura e luminosidade na germinação de sementes das espécies: Selenicereus setaceus, Hylocereus undatus e Hylocereus polyrhizus / Influence of temperature and luminosity in seed germination of species: Selenicereus setaceus, Hylocereus undatus and Hylocereus polyrhizus

A pitaia é uma frutífera tropical, pertencente à família Cactaceae, com elevado potencial produtivo, nutritivo, econômico e social para a agricultura familiar, sendo uma cultura ainda pouco conhecida e com escassas informações sobre as condições que afetam a germinação das diferentes espécies de pitaia. Assim, o trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a influência da temperatura e da luminosidade na germinação de sementes de três genótipos de pitaia. Para avaliar o efeito da temperatura na qualidade fisiológica das sementes foram utilizadas as espécies Selenicereus setaceus (pitaia-do-cerrado), Hylocereus undatus (casca vermelha e polpa branca) e Hylocereus polyrhizus (casca vermelha rosada e polpa vermelha) submetidas à germinação em sete temperaturas (15 °C, 20 °C, 25 °C, 30 °C e 35 °C, e em temperaturas alternadas: 15-25 ºC e 20-30 ºC, todas com fotoperíodo de 12 horas). As avaliações realizadas foram: porcentagem de germinação, índice de velocidade de germinação e tempo para ocorrência de 50% de germinação. Para a avaliação da influência da luminosidade, as sementes foram acondicionadas em frasco envolto por papel alumínio, a fim de proteger as sementes de qualquer contato com luminosidade, e armazenadas em refrigerador em temperatura de 10 ± 2 °C por 365 dias. Após, foram submetidas ao tratamento com e sem luz e mantidas em BOD por 11 dias, quando se realizou a contagem das plântulas normais. As temperaturas para o máximo desempenho fisiológico das sementes das três espécies de pitaia foram de 25 °C e 20-30 ºC. Por outro lado, a temperatura mais desfavorável foi de 35 °C. A espécie Selenicereus setaceus apresentou maior percentual de germinação e vigor em todas as temperaturas avaliadas. As espécies avaliadas demonstraram ser fotoblásticas positivas.(AU)

Pitaya is a tropical fruit belonging to the Cactaceae family. With high productive, nutritive, economic and social potential for family farming, it is a still little known culture with scarce information on the conditions affecting the germination of its different species. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the influence of temperature and luminosity on seed germination of three genotypes of pitaya. To evaluate the effect of temperature on the physiological quality of the seeds, the Selenicereus setaceus, Hylocereus undatus (red peel and white pulp) and Hylocereus polyrhizus were used and (pink red peel and red pulp) submitted to seven germination temperatures (15 °C, 20 °C, 25 °C, 30 °C, and 35 °C, and in alternating temperatures: 15-25 ºC and 20-30 ºC, all in a photoperiod of 12 hours). The evaluations were: percentage of germination, germination speed index, and time for occurrence of 50% of germination. For the evaluation of the influence of the luminosity, the seeds were conditioned in bottle wrapped in aluminum foil to protect the seeds from contact with the luminosity and stored in refrigerator at 10 ± 2 °C for 365 days. They were then submitted to the treatment with and without light and kept in BOD for eleven days, when the normal seedling were counted. The temperatures for the maximum physiological performance of the seeds of three species of pitaya were 25 ºC and the alternating 20-30 °C. On the other hand, the unfavorable temperature was 35 °C. The Selenicereus setaceus showed a higher percentage of germination and vigor in all temperatures evaluated. The species evaluated demonstrated to be positive photoblastic.(AU)

Influência da temperatura e luminosidade na germinação de sementes das espécies: Selenicereus setaceus, Hylocereus undatus e Hylocereus polyrhizus / Influence of temperature and luminosity in seed germination of species: Selenicereus setaceus, Hylocereus undatus and Hylocereus polyrhizus

A pitaia é uma frutífera tropical, pertencente à família Cactaceae, com elevado potencial produtivo, nutritivo, econômico e social para a agricultura familiar, sendo uma cultura ainda pouco conhecida e com escassas informações sobre as condições que afetam a germinação das diferentes espécies de pitaia. Assim, o trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a influência da temperatura e da luminosidade na germinação de sementes de três genótipos de pitaia. Para avaliar o efeito da temperatura na qualidade fisiológica das sementes foram utilizadas as espécies Selenicereus setaceus (pitaia-do-cerrado), Hylocereus undatus (casca vermelha e polpa branca) e Hylocereus polyrhizus (casca vermelha rosada e polpa vermelha) submetidas à germinação em sete temperaturas (15 °C, 20 °C, 25 °C, 30 °C e 35 °C, e em temperaturas alternadas: 15-25 ºC e 20-30 ºC, todas com fotoperíodo de 12 horas). As avaliações realizadas foram: porcentagem de germinação, índice de velocidade de germinação e tempo para ocorrência de 50% de germinação. Para a avaliação da influência da luminosidade, as sementes foram acondicionadas em frasco envolto por papel alumínio, a fim de proteger as sementes de qualquer contato com luminosidade, e armazenadas em refrigerador em temperatura de 10 ± 2 °C por 365 dias. Após, foram submetidas ao tratamento com e sem luz e mantidas em BOD por 11 dias, quando se realizou a contagem das plântulas normais. As temperaturas para o máximo desempenho fisiológico das sementes das três espécies de pitaia foram de 25 °C e 20-30 ºC. Por outro lado, a temperatura mais desfavorável foi de 35 °C. A espécie Selenicereus setaceus apresentou maior percentual de germinação e vigor em todas as temperaturas avaliadas. As espécies avaliadas demonstraram ser fotoblásticas positivas.

Pitaya is a tropical fruit belonging to the Cactaceae family. With high productive, nutritive, economic and social potential for family farming, it is a still little known culture with scarce information on the conditions affecting the germination of its different species. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the influence of temperature and luminosity on seed germination of three genotypes of pitaya. To evaluate the effect of temperature on the physiological quality of the seeds, the Selenicereus setaceus, Hylocereus undatus (red peel and white pulp) and Hylocereus polyrhizus were used and (pink red peel and red pulp) submitted to seven germination temperatures (15 °C, 20 °C, 25 °C, 30 °C, and 35 °C, and in alternating temperatures: 15-25 ºC and 20-30 ºC, all in a photoperiod of 12 hours). The evaluations were: percentage of germination, germination speed index, and time for occurrence of 50% of germination. For the evaluation of the influence of the luminosity, the seeds were conditioned in bottle wrapped in aluminum foil to protect the seeds from contact with the luminosity and stored in refrigerator at 10 ± 2 °C for 365 days. They were then submitted to the treatment with and without light and kept in BOD for eleven days, when the normal seedling were counted. The temperatures for the maximum physiological performance of the seeds of three species of pitaya were 25 ºC and the alternating 20-30 °C. On the other hand, the unfavorable temperature was 35 °C. The Selenicereus setaceus showed a higher percentage of germination and vigor in all temperatures evaluated. The species evaluated demonstrated to be positive photoblastic.

Temperature in the seeds germination of pitaya genotypes / Temperatura na germinação de sementes de genótipos de pitaya

The optimum temperature for germination of cacti vary with the species. With this work, we aimed toevaluate the seeds germination of pitaya genotypes under different temperatures. The used genotypeswere: Hylocereus undatus (PB), H. polyrhizus (PV), Selenicereus megalanthus (PA), H. undatus x H.costaricensis (PH1) and H. costaricensis x H. undatus (PH2). For each genotype we used four replicatesof 50 seeds, in a completely randomized design. The sowing was carried out on blotter paper in boxestype Gerbox ®, maintained at temperatures of 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 oC constant and 15-25, 20-30and 25-35 oC alternating with photoperiod 12 hours. The test lasted 30 days which were appraised the germination percentage, the germination speed index and the average time of germination. For seedsgermination of PB, the result obtained in the temperature of 25 oC didnt differ of the obtained to 30 and20-30 oC, however it was superior to the others temperatures. In PV, the result at 25 oC didnt differ ofthe obtained to 20 and 30 oC, being superior to the results of the others temperatures. For PA, the bestresult was obtained to 25 oC. In PH1, the temperatures of 25, 30 and 20-30 oC presented superiors resultsto the others. For PH2, the result obtained in 15-25oC didnt differ of the obtained at 25 oC, however itwas superior to the others temperatures. The constants temperatures of 25 and 30 °C and alternating 20-30 °C are suitable for germination of H. undatus and for the hybrid H. undatus x H. costaricensis. ForH. polyrhizus, constant temperatures of 20, 25 to 30 °C are suitable for seed germination. The constanttemperature of 25 °C is the most suitable for the germination of S. megalanthus. For the hybrid H.costaricensis x H. undatus, constant temperature of 25 °C and alternating 15-25°C are suitable for seedgermination.(AU)

As temperaturas ótimas para a germinação de sementes de cactos variam com a espécie. Com esse trabalho, objetivou-se avaliar a germinação de sementes de genótipos de pitaya sob diferentes temperaturas. Os genótipos utilizados foram: Hylocereus undatus (PB), H. polyrhizus (PV), Selenicereus megalanthus (PA), H. undatus x H. costaricensis (PH1) e H. costaricensis x H. undatus (PH2). Para cada genótipo utilizou-se quatro repetições de 50 sementes, em delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado. A semeadura foi realizada sobre papel mata-borrão, em caixas tipo Gerbox®, mantidas sob as temperaturas de 15, 20, 25, 30 e 35 oC constantes e 15-25, 20-30 e 25-35 oC alternadas, com fotoperíodo de 12 horas. O teste de germinação durou 30 dias, nos quais foram avaliados a porcentagem, o tempo médio e o índice de velocidade de germinação. Para a germinação de sementes de PB, o resultado obtido na temperatura de 25 oC não diferiu dos obtidos a 30 e 20-30 oC, no entanto foi superior às demais temperaturas. Em PV, o resultado a 25 oC não diferiu dos obtidos à 20 e 30 oC, sendo superior aos resultados das demais temperaturas. Para PA, o melhor resultado foi obtido a 25 oC. Em PH1, as temperaturas de 25, 30 e 20-30 oC apresentaram resultados superiores às demais. Para PH2, o resultado obtido em 15-25 oC não diferiu do obtido à 25 oC, no entanto foi superior aos das demais temperaturas. As temperaturas constantes de 25 e 30 ºC e a alternada de 20-30 ºC são adequadas para a germinaçãode sementes de H. undatus e para o híbrido H. undatus x H. costaricensis. Para H. polyrhizus, astemperaturas constantes de 20, 25 e 30 ºC são adequadas para a germinação das sementes. A temperaturaconstante de 25 ºC é a mais adequada para a germinação de sementes de S. megalanthus. Para o híbridoH. costaricensis x H. undatus, a temperatura constante de 25ºC e a alternada de 15-25 ºC são adequadaspara a germinação das sementes.(AU)

Temperature in the seeds germination of pitaya genotypes / Temperatura na germinação de sementes de genótipos de pitaya

The optimum temperature for germination of cacti vary with the species. With this work, we aimed toevaluate the seeds germination of pitaya genotypes under different temperatures. The used genotypeswere: Hylocereus undatus (PB), H. polyrhizus (PV), Selenicereus megalanthus (PA), H. undatus x H.costaricensis (PH1) and H. costaricensis x H. undatus (PH2). For each genotype we used four replicatesof 50 seeds, in a completely randomized design. The sowing was carried out on blotter paper in boxestype Gerbox ®, maintained at temperatures of 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 oC constant and 15-25, 20-30and 25-35 oC alternating with photoperiod 12 hours. The test lasted 30 days which were appraised the germination percentage, the germination speed index and the average time of germination. For seedsgermination of PB, the result obtained in the temperature of 25 oC didn’t differ of the obtained to 30 and20-30 oC, however it was superior to the others temperatures. In PV, the result at 25 oC didn’t differ ofthe obtained to 20 and 30 oC, being superior to the results of the others temperatures. For PA, the bestresult was obtained to 25 oC. In PH1, the temperatures of 25, 30 and 20-30 oC presented superiors resultsto the others. For PH2, the result obtained in 15-25oC didn’t differ of the obtained at 25 oC, however itwas superior to the others temperatures. The constants temperatures of 25 and 30 °C and alternating 20-30 °C are suitable for germination of H. undatus and for the hybrid H. undatus x H. costaricensis. ForH. polyrhizus, constant temperatures of 20, 25 to 30 °C are suitable for seed germination. The constanttemperature of 25 °C is the most suitable for the germination of S. megalanthus. For the hybrid H.costaricensis x H. undatus, constant temperature of 25 °C and alternating 15-25°C are suitable for seedgermination.

As temperaturas ótimas para a germinação de sementes de cactos variam com a espécie. Com esse trabalho, objetivou-se avaliar a germinação de sementes de genótipos de pitaya sob diferentes temperaturas. Os genótipos utilizados foram: Hylocereus undatus (PB), H. polyrhizus (PV), Selenicereus megalanthus (PA), H. undatus x H. costaricensis (PH1) e H. costaricensis x H. undatus (PH2). Para cada genótipo utilizou-se quatro repetições de 50 sementes, em delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado. A semeadura foi realizada sobre papel mata-borrão, em caixas tipo Gerbox®, mantidas sob as temperaturas de 15, 20, 25, 30 e 35 oC constantes e 15-25, 20-30 e 25-35 oC alternadas, com fotoperíodo de 12 horas. O teste de germinação durou 30 dias, nos quais foram avaliados a porcentagem, o tempo médio e o índice de velocidade de germinação. Para a germinação de sementes de PB, o resultado obtido na temperatura de 25 oC não diferiu dos obtidos a 30 e 20-30 oC, no entanto foi superior às demais temperaturas. Em PV, o resultado a 25 oC não diferiu dos obtidos à 20 e 30 oC, sendo superior aos resultados das demais temperaturas. Para PA, o melhor resultado foi obtido a 25 oC. Em PH1, as temperaturas de 25, 30 e 20-30 oC apresentaram resultados superiores às demais. Para PH2, o resultado obtido em 15-25 oC não diferiu do obtido à 25 oC, no entanto foi superior aos das demais temperaturas. As temperaturas constantes de 25 e 30 ºC e a alternada de 20-30 ºC são adequadas para a germinaçãode sementes de H. undatus e para o híbrido H. undatus x H. costaricensis. Para H. polyrhizus, astemperaturas constantes de 20, 25 e 30 ºC são adequadas para a germinação das sementes. A temperaturaconstante de 25 ºC é a mais adequada para a germinação de sementes de S. megalanthus. Para o híbridoH. costaricensis x H. undatus, a temperatura constante de 25ºC e a alternada de 15-25 ºC são adequadaspara a germinação das sementes.

Quality of pitaya fruit (Hylocereus undatus) as influenced by storage temperature and packaging

Pitaya (Hylocereus undatus) is an exotic non-climacteric fruit that reaches its best eating quality when harvested ripe, decreasing thereafter during storage. Our objectives were to determine the best combination of storage temperature and use of perforated plastic bags to maintain the postharvest quality of the fruit. Fruits were stored at 5, 7, or 10 ºC with and without a perforated plastic bag for 20 days, followed by five days at 20 ºC without the bag for shelf-life determination. Storage at 5 ºC, followed by 7 ºC maintained better visual appearance of the pitaya fruit after 20 days, by reducing decay incidence and severity, and maintaining greener bracts compared with fruit stored at 10 ºC. Pitaya fruit stored at 5 ºC without a perforated plastic bag showed no decay after storage and shelf-life. In general, higher temperatures and the use of a perforated plastic bag increased decay incidence, as well as decay severity after storage and shelf-life conditions. At all temperatures, fruit stored in a perforated plastic bag had lower weight loss during storage. After shelf-life, weight loss was highest in fruit stored at higher temperatures. Storage of fruits at 5 ºC resulted in minor chilling injury symptoms in the outer flesh tissue, close to the peel. Storage at 5 ºC without a perforated plastic bag was the best condition to maintain the postharvest quality of the pitaya fruit.

Quality of pitaya fruit (Hylocereus undatus) as influenced by storage temperature and packaging

Pitaya (Hylocereus undatus) is an exotic non-climacteric fruit that reaches its best eating quality when harvested ripe, decreasing thereafter during storage. Our objectives were to determine the best combination of storage temperature and use of perforated plastic bags to maintain the postharvest quality of the fruit. Fruits were stored at 5, 7, or 10 ºC with and without a perforated plastic bag for 20 days, followed by five days at 20 ºC without the bag for shelf-life determination. Storage at 5 ºC, followed by 7 ºC maintained better visual appearance of the pitaya fruit after 20 days, by reducing decay incidence and severity, and maintaining greener bracts compared with fruit stored at 10 ºC. Pitaya fruit stored at 5 ºC without a perforated plastic bag showed no decay after storage and shelf-life. In general, higher temperatures and the use of a perforated plastic bag increased decay incidence, as well as decay severity after storage and shelf-life conditions. At all temperatures, fruit stored in a perforated plastic bag had lower weight loss during storage. After shelf-life, weight loss was highest in fruit stored at higher temperatures. Storage of fruits at 5 ºC resulted in minor chilling injury symptoms in the outer flesh tissue, close to the peel. Storage at 5 ºC without a perforated plastic bag was the best condition to maintain the postharvest quality of the pitaya fruit.