Fruit morphological and physiological traits influence calcium transport and accumulation in kiwifruit

Effects of exposure to light and air movement on the accumulation of some mineral elements in fruit of kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa (A.Chev.) C.F. Liang et A.R. Ferguson var. deliciosa) are presented. Exposed fruit (>40% full sunlight) exhibited calcium content twice that of shaded fruit (<20% full sunlight). Trends of Ca accumulation are discussed in relation to various known physiological and morphological fruit traits. Xylem functionality, fruit transpiration, fruit hair viability and fruit hydraulic conductance show significant changes during the first 8-10 weeks after full bloom. Each of these can, in part be held to account for the early cessation of Ca import into the fruit. Future research perspectives and opportunities for field manipulation to increase fruit Ca content are introduced