Catecholase and cresolase activities and phenolic content in mango (Mangifera indica L.) at panicle initiation

Catecholase and cresolase (PPO) enzyme activities and phenolic content were measured in different mango cultivars at panicle initiation. Enzyme activity and phenolic content varied widely amongst eight cultivars, the maximum being in Bhadauran and minimum in Tommy Atkins. Floral malformation incidence was maximum (53.75%) in 'Tommy Atkins' and minimum in 'Bhadauran' (1.10%). A strong negative correlation was found between both the enzyme activity, phenolic content at panicle initiation and the incidence of floral malformation. Thus, PPO activity and level of phenolic compounds at panicle initiation may give a possible estimate of malformation incidence in mango. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.