Review on Fruit Quality Parameters and Biochemical Basis of Anthracnose Disease Resistance in Chillies

G Malathi¹, R Manjari¹, Nithishkumar M, Sankari A², Senthilkumar T³ and Anandhakrishnaveni S⁴*

¹Horticultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, India
²Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, India
³Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu, India
⁴Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu, India

*Corresponding Author: Malathi Gopal, Horticultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Yercaud, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India.

DOI: 10.64258/3068-5532.2025.101003

Submission Date: May 3, 2025

Published Date: May 12, 2025

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Abstract

India is the world\'s largest producer, consumer, and exporter of chillies, which is a spice and vegetable crop. The quality and yield of chilli fruits are significantly impacted by anthracnose disease, caused by various Colletotrichum sps, notably C. gloeosporioides and C. acutatum. This disease results in substantial economic losses for farmers, reducing marketable yield by approximately 13%. Resistance to anthracnose in chillies involves a complex interplay of morphological and biochemical factors. Key biochemical mechanisms underlying resistance include the biosynthesis and accumulation of defense-related compounds, induction of defense proteins, and activation of antioxidant systems. Phenolic compounds, synthesized via the phenylpropanoid pathway, play a crucial role in maintaining cell wall integrity and providing antimicrobial properties. Increased activity of antioxidative enzymes is essential for scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced during infestation, including catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and peroxidases (POX). Studies have shown that resistant chilli varieties exhibit higher activities of peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase, which contribute to defense responses through lignin deposition and phenolic compound synthesis. Additionally, resistant varieties demonstrate higher levels of ascorbic acid, capsaicin, and phenols compared to susceptible ones. Understanding these biochemical pathways associated with resistance can aid in developing effective breeding strategies for resistant chilli genotypes. This review highlights the importance of biochemical basis and quality parameters in elucidating the mechanisms of anthracnose disease resistance, providing insights for enhancing chilli crop resilience and productivity

Keywords

Chilli (Capsicum annuum), Anthracnose Disease, Fruit Quality, Biochemicals Basis of Resistance

Citation

G Malathi, R Manjari, Nithishkumar M, Sankari A, Senthilkumar T, Anandhakrishnaveni S (2025) Review on Fruit Quality Parameters and Biochemical Basis of Anthracnose Disease Resistance in Chillies. Curr Tren Agron & Agric Res 1(1): 1-7.