Morphological characteristics of okra fruits [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench.] cultivated in the dry tropic

Resumen

Objective: The objective was to evaluate the morphological characteristics of okra fruit
[Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench.], an endemic crop of the Afro-Mexican region, in
the dry tropics.
Design/Methodology/Approach: Materials were collected in Cuajinicuilapa, in the
state of Guerrero in Mexico. Using a completely randomized design (CRD), 4 repetitions
of 100 fruits were selected, and each was evaluated for the following: weight, number,
size and shape of fruits and seeds. Data were analyzed using measures of central
tendency, utilizing SAS.
Results: The fruits are heterogeneous and some are deformed, they have a long and
fluted shape, with an average weight of 10.4 g and 95 seeds each weighing 0.05 g. The
seeds are round with a conical micropyle, the testa is dark grey, and the embryo white.
Study Limitations/Implications: It is necessary to keep studying the morphological
characteristics of okra fruit for a longer period of time and to establish farming in order
to widen the outlook of decision making.

Findings/Conclusions: Okra fruits from backyard farming have better quality and
potential for fresh or processed consumption. There is a lack of management and
improvement of this crop.