Sapota-do-solimões: aspectos gerais
Sapota-do-solimões: aspectos gerais
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.8351525120611
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Palavras-chave: Matisia cordata, frutífera natina, Amazônia.
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Keywords: Matisia cordata, native fruit tree, Amazon.
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Abstract: Matisia cordata is a fruit tree native to the Western Amazon, cultivated in the Alto Solimões region, likely giving rise to its name. It is a tree species, with individuals growing an average of 25 to 30 meters, but when isolated in forests, they can reach over 40 meters in height. It has light, soft wood, a thickened trunk due to the accumulation of water in the reserve tissues, and produces fruits that can be consumed fresh or in the form of sweets and preserves. Its fruits come in various shapes (rounded and ovoid). When ripe, they detach from the plant and are collected from the ground. They have a flavor, aroma, and texture very similar to mango and melon, and are highly acceptable to the general public, both for the fresh fruit and for products derived from it. The seeds are resistant to storage. Germination is epigeal, meaning the cotyledons emerge above the ground. The seeds do not exhibit dormancy, and germination rates are generally high. it can be propagated sexually (by seeds) or asexually, through rooting cuttings or grafting. Characterizing the chemical composition of the pulp of the Solimões sapota fruit, values of up to 15.7% total solids and total acidity of up to 0.09% were found, with a total solids-to-total acidity ratio of up to 158.5%. Thus, it has a significant amount of total soluble solids and low total titratable acidity, which gives the fruit a sweet and mild flavor. Although there are no reports of threats to its survival in the wild, floristic and population dynamics studies are important to more accurately assess the true conservation status of this species in the wild. This is even considering that its distribution is restricted to its natural occurrence in some states in northern Brazil and in natural populations, and within conservation units within the species' range. Despite its abundant fruiting, specimens found in cultivated areas are still rare. Except in some backyards, research institutions, and botanical gardens.
- Walnice Maria Oliveira do Nascimento
- Ester Costa Franco
- Caio Xavier dos Santos
- Lucas Rozendo de Lima Silva