Efecto de la temperatura y la radiación sobre la respuesta fisiológica del cacao (Theobroma cacao L): estrategias de mejoramiento.

Abstract

Cacao (Theobroma cacao L.), is a South American crop, usually grown under tree shade. It has also been cultivated in full sun exposure. This variability of radiation and temperature conditions causes cacao to have differential physiological responses that vary between cultivars. There is uncertainty about the possible effects of changes in temperature and light conditions on cacao due to the scarcity of information and the few cultivars that have been evaluated. This review aims to summarize the current evidence on the effects of different radiation and temperature conditions on the ecophysiological responses of cacao (gas exchange, water relations and photochemistry). These factors are also associated with water availability conditions. Physiological evidence shows great adaptation plasticity of cacao to radiation conditions ranging from 200 to 1000 µmol m-2s-1. But field radiation conditions between 700 to 900 µmol m-2s-1 are shown to be the optimal range. These radiation conditions also create changes in temperature. It is appreciated that the optimal temperature ranges for cacao should be between 24 to 27 oC. Finally, it is highlighted that among the main challenges it is essential to carry out research under field conditions since a large part of the studies carried out have been carried out on seedlings under greenhouse conditions. This does not reflect all the interrelationships between the abiotic variables that are established and such complexity affects the physiological responses of cacao.It is also important to continue evaluating more cultivars