Acetaldehyde, Ethanol, and Carbohydrate Concentrations in Developing Muskmelon Fruit (Cucumis melo L. cv. Andesu) Are Affected by Short-term Shading

Abstract

Acetaldehyde and ethanol production by muskmelon fruit were promoted by short-term shading of the plants for 5 days from 10 to 15 days prior to fruit maturation. Sucrose concentrations in the fruit flesh were reduced by shading, while fructose and glucose concentrations did not differ. Shading also accelerated the development of a “water-soaked” appearance in the flesh.