Sex-based assessment of nutrient composition in fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis Hook. F)
1 Genetics Resources Unit, National Horticultural Research Institute, P.M.B. 5432, Dugbe, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
2 Product Development Programme, National Horticultural Research Institute, P.M.B. 5432, Dugbe, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
3 Vegetable Research Programme, National Horticultural Research Institute, P.M.B. 5432, Dugbe, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
4 Department of Crop Production and Soil Science, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, P. O. Box 22663, UI Post Office, Ibadan, Oyo state, Nigeria.
Research Article
GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2023, 24(03), 224–233.
Article DOI: 10.30574/gscbps.2023.24.3.0380
Publication history:
Received on 03 August 2023; revised on 12 September 2023; accepted on 15 September 2023
Abstract:
Fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis Hook. F), is an under-utilized leafy vegetable cultivated and consumed for its valuable nutrients and minerals playing a crucial role in combating micronutrient deficiencies. This shrub is dioecious, exhibiting distinct differences in sexual morphology. The study aims to contrast the phytochemicals, physico-chemical and mineral profiles of the female and male fluted pumpkin leaves. Seedlings of fluted pumpkin were evaluated at National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), Ibadan, Nigeria using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Fresh leaves were harvested at flowering from identified male and female vines for nutrient composition analysis. Beta-carotene, sodium and fibre content were notably higher in female leaves, whereas vitamin C, minerals, and anti-nutrients were more abundant in the male leaves. The concentrations of phenolic, flavonoid, vitamin C, tannin, saponin, and certain minerals emerged as the most influential factors for distinguishing between the sexes. Hence, leaves from both sexes can contribute to an enhanced diet as both sexes harbor valuable genetic traits that could be harnessed for the nutrient improvement of fluted pumpkin varieties.
Keywords:
Mineral; Physico-chemical; Phytochemicals; Sex; Ugu leaves
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Copyright © 2023 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Liscense 4.0
