Chemical composition of forage watermelon fruit at different maturity stage or storage length

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to assess the chemical responses of forage watermelon fruit at different maturity stage s or storage lengths, performing twoexperimental tests. In the first test, four maturity stages were assessed 30, 45, 60, and 75 days after anthesis, with four replicates. In the second test, fruits were maintained under three storage lengths T1D (harvest day), T3M (3 months after harvest), and T6M (6 months after harvest), with eight replicates. Experimental design was c ompletely randomized in both experimental tests. Fruit maturity stage did not affect crude protein, total carbohydrate, neutral detergent fiber, in vitrodry matter digestibility (IVDMD), pulp firmness, soluble solids content an d total pectin content, but increased acid detergent fiber content from 45 days after anthesis. Storage length up to six months after harvest increased ash, crude protein and IVDMD, and reduced the content of soluble solid s. Forage watermelon fruit can be harvested from 30 to 75 days after anthesis eq uivalent to 75 -120 days after planting, and they can be stored under tree shade up to 6 months after harvest.(AU)