Physio-Chemical Characterization of Mango Germplasms Found in Farwest Province of Nepal

Abstract

Mango fruits (Mangifera indica L.) are good source of antioxidants including vitamin C, phenolic compounds, carotenoids and other dietary compounds. This study evaluated the physical (weight, length, diameter and firmness) and chemical (total soluble solids, titratable acidity, pH, vitamin C, total phenol, flavonol and carotenoids) attributes of ten local mango germplasm from far western Nepal and the results were compared with commercial cultivar Maldha. Fruit attributes were analyzed at full ripening stage (6 days after harvesting). Physical traits showed significant variation, with local germplasms exhibiting smaller fruits weight (20.48–53.17 g), length (40.57–56.71 mm), and diameter (31.76–43.25 mm) than Maldha (160.44 g, 82.66 mm and 60.86 mm respectively), although firmness did not differ significantly. Maldha recorded the highest pH and total soluble solids (TSS), whereas, Kakune showed the lowest titratable acidity. Sanney exhibited the highest vitamin C (1.12 mg/ml) and total phenols (0.0095 mg/g GAE), while Moto Surukulle had the highest carotenoid content. During ripening, TSS, phenols, flavonols, and carotenoids increased while acidity declined. This study shows the significant variation among local germplasms and commercial cultivars with respect to physical and chemical attributes of fruits. Local germplasms showed greater antioxidant potential despite Maldah’s superior fruit size and sweetness. Further multi-year evaluation, yield assessment and consumer preference studies are recommended to identify superior cultivars for cultivation and breeding programs in far-western Nepal.