Influence of Harvest Periods on Cassava (<i>Manihot esculenta</i> Crantz) Agronomic Traits and Physiological Response to Post-Harvest Physiological Deterioration

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is the third largest source of calories in tropical countries and sixth most important food crop World. However, short shelf life its storage roots after harvest due to a rapid post-harvest physiological deterioration (PPD) makes be considered as risky product market. The objectives this work were investigate influence two periods on cassava agronomic parameters their response PPD. Three cultivars 96/1414, I070593 LMR selected for experiment harvested at 10 12 months planting (MAP). PPD was assessed during 0, 3, 8 15 days (DAH). Total proteins content, soluble sugars starch, total polyphenols compounds, polyphenoloxidase peroxidase activities recorded storage. Results showed large variation among across cultivars. High number tubers all MAP significant increase length observed 96/1414 from (25 ± 5.1 41.3 5.9 22.6 3.3 27.9 4.8) respectively. A reduction about 49% weight while an 36% 11% Tubers less susceptibility when compared those where MAP. An content activity subsequently decrease starch especially 96/1414. phenolic compounds polyphenol oxidase correlated susceptibility. This opens new insight issue consideration appropriate time tool better control onset postharvest deterioration.