Bioscience Evidence 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 281-292 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/be 281 Feature Review Open Access A Review of the Morphological Structure and Photosynthetic Metabolic Characteristics of Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus spp.) Jungui Xu , Zizhong Wang Guangzhou Wengwengweng Technology Co., Ltd., Guangzhou, 510670, Guangdong, China Corresponding email: xuxinye313@126.com Bioscience Evidence, 2024, Vol.14, No.6 doi: 10.5376/be.2024.14.0029 Received: 28 Oct., 2024 Accepted: 04 Dec., 2024 Published: 15 Dec., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Xu and Wang, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Xu J.G., and Wang Z.Z., 2024, A review of the morphological structure and photosynthetic metabolic characteristics of dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.), Bioscience Evidence, 14(6): 281-292 (doi: 10.5376/be.2024.14.0029) Abstract Dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.) is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions due to its unique appearance, rich nutritional value, and economic benefits. This study systematically analyzes the morphological structure and photosynthetic metabolic characteristics of dragon fruit, including its triangular stem segments, vibrant peel and pulp colors, and the adaptation mechanisms of its fleshy stem to arid environments. The research found that dragon fruit utilizes Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) photosynthesis, which reduces water loss by fixing carbon dioxide at night, demonstrating high drought resistance. Significant genetic variation among different species in traits such as fruit weight, carotenoid content, and antioxidant potential provides a theoretical basis for species identification and the selection of superior cultivars. The study also explores the growth cycle and physiological characteristics of dragon fruit, including flowering physiology, fruit development, and maturation processes. High temperatures and drought conditions significantly affect the growth and yield of dragon fruit, and the regulation of related genes, such as the expression of heat shock proteins, enhances its adaptability to environmental stress. Additionally, the economic value of dragon fruit cultivation is further enhanced by its potential in the development of health foods and nutritional supplements. This study provides a scientific basis for optimizing dragon fruit cultivation management, improving yield and quality, and offers research directions for further investigation into its disease resistance genes and the impact of climate change on dragon fruit production. Keywords Dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.); Morphological structure; Photosynthetic metabolism; Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM); Genetic variation; Micropropagation 1 Introduction Dragon fruit, belonging to the family of Cactaceae, is a tropical fruit that has gained significant popularity due to its unique appearance, nutritional benefits, and economic value. The fruit is rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, complex carbohydrates, dietary fibers, and antioxidants, making it a valuable addition to the diet (Abirami et al., 2021). Dragon fruit is primarily cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions, with notable production in countries such as Vietnam, China, and Brazil (Wonglom et al., 2023; Zhao and Huang et al., 2023). The morphological structure of dragon fruit includes distinctive features such as its vibrant peel and pulp colors, the presence of spines, and the unique shape of its cladodes. These characteristics not only contribute to its aesthetic appeal but also play a role in its identification and classification (Abirami et al., 2021; Xu et al., 2024). The photosynthetic metabolism of dragon fruit is adapted to its arid growing conditions, with specialized mechanisms that enhance its ability to thrive in such environments. Studies have shown significant genetic variation among different species of Hylocereus, particularly in traits related to fruit and pulp weight, carotenoid content, and antioxidant potential (Abirami et al., 2021). Dragon fruit holds substantial economic value due to its high demand in both local and international markets. It is not only consumed fresh but also used in various processed forms such as juices, jams, and nutraceutical products. The fruit's high antioxidant content, particularly in its peel, makes it a potential candidate for the development of health supplements aimed at addressing vitamin deficiencies (Abirami et al., 2021). Additionally, the cultivation of dragon fruit provides economic opportunities for farmers in tropical regions, contributing to the agricultural economy (Zhao and Huang et al., 2023).
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzMg==