Unravelling the physiological basis of superficial scald in pears based on cultivar differences

Collectively the results from this study indicate that superficial scald in pear develops differently than in apples. The highest sensitivity observed in 'Beurré d'Anjou' pears was not related to ethylene and/or to the capacity of the fruit to accumulate α-farnesene, but rather to its capacity to prevent the accumulation CTols. Although presenting similar values in global antioxidant potential, the higher resistance of 'Packham Triumph' pears to superficial scald was positively associated to higher ascorbate levels. The potential involvement of ascorbate in preventing superficial scald development is further discussed.