| ABSTRACT Latex from Jatropha curcas L. exhibits biotechnological potential for the development of biodiesel and drugs. Little is known about the collection methods and latex productivity of this species. In order to garner information on the use of J. curcas latex, factors that influence production by this species were assessed. As a result, no significant difference was found between the volume of latex collected in the stem and the branches. With respect to environmental characteristics, climatic conditions, such as low temperatures and rainfall, affected production. The period of low temperatures and leaf fall occurs after fruit harvest and, in the absence of strong sinks, the plant can use the assimilates to generate greater latex production. Multiple... |
