Agro-Morphological, Biochemical and Antioxidant Characterization of a Tunisian Chili Pepper Germplasm Collection

Pepper species have been described as being highly sensitive to climate change. Here, we discuss the variability of agro-morphological and phytochemical responses pepper cultivars in context ongoing changes during seven stages maturity, including heat stress. The effects interactions were calculated determine source variation according rising temperature. Capsaicin content (CAP), total phenolic (TPC) flavonoid (TFC) levels antioxidant activity (AA) also determined at different harvest times (at 10, 25, 40, 55, 70, 85 100 days after anthesis, DAA). Agro-morphological data showed that highest was recorded for fruit traits compared flower plant ones. In particular, calyx shape margin, annular constriction, blossom end size had a significant impact on morphologic diversity among accessions. Levels bioactive compounds depended genotype time. TPC AA increased DAA, while TFC detected early harvest. Principal component analysis (PCA) allowed us separate three clusters with well-defined biochemical traits. regardless time, Baklouti Chébika, Sbikha Chaabani accessions presented higher TPC, considered conclusion, high genetic noted within analyzed germplasm, thus suggesting need major consideration both breeding programs. current research conducted facilitate better management under high-stress conditions due global warming