ABSTRACT: The compound 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is a key precursor in the biosynthesis of porphyrins, such as chlorophyll, heme and phytochromobilin, and has multiple physiological effects on plants. Varying concentrations of ALA (50mg L-1, 100mg L-1, and 150mg L-1) and water (control) were applied to white stage 'Sweet Charlie' strawberry fruit. All ALA treatments delayed senescence and improved the qualities of strawberries fruit during storage. Among the treatments, 150mg L-1 ALA was the most effective dosage concentration. Exogenously applied ALA significantly reduced the decay index, respiration rate, O2 - production rate (O2 -), H2O2 and malondialdehyde (MDA) content, increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase activities (APX),... |