Anatomical Assessment of Skin Separation in Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L. var. Mejhoul) Fruit during Maturation and Ripening Stages

Skin separation (puffiness) is a critical physiological disorder that significantly reduces the date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) fruit’s visual appearance and quality. The objectives of this study were to analyze fruit anatomy in skin-separated normal (var. Mejhoul) assess microclimatic conditions (temperature relative humidity) during developmental stages their association with skin separation. Fruit analysis was carried at different growth (Kimri-Khalal, Khalal, Rutab Tamr) for two growing seasons. In addition, (specifically, temperature, as well soil moisture content assessed across period 2020 2021. anatomical revealed exocarp or (cuticle, epidermis, hypodermis) thickness quite similar over (2020, 2021). Conversely, more sclereid cells found (compared fruit) Tamr stage. At stage (Tamr), percentage increase cell number ranged from 34–183%, clusters 23–92%, cluster area 37–206%, perimeter 25–64%, compared fruit. areas clustered together, forming chain aggregates underneath skin, closer (42–50%, than normal) cuticle, leading partial mesocarp. Although weather data seasons (temperatures, 33–34 °C; humidity, 45–46%), occurred 14–15% total 30–34% Therefore, we believe not heavily dependent it seems have been thought. conclusion, changes microclimate conclusive component inducing Further studies are required identify main factors stimulate development potential agricultural practices reduce