Ethylene and the Appearance of an Albedo Macerating Factor in Citrus1

Abstract

Abstract Stem and fruit tissues of ‘Valencia’ and navel oranges were treated with ethylene via the decomposition of applied (2-chloroethyl)phosphonic acid (ethephon). Ethephon applications were sufficient to cause uniform loosening of the fruit from the tree. The tissues then were extracted and the extracts assayed by a citrus albedo tissue maceration test for enzyme activity. Maceration activity increased with time after ethylene treatment.