Parthenocarpy

Abstract

The fruit provides a proper environment for seed production, protection and dispersal. Fruit set and development usually takes place only after pollination and fertilization, and fertilized fruits contain seeds. The development of fruits without pollination and fertilization is called parthenocarpy. Parthenocarpic fruits are seedless. Therefore, seedless fruits represent the uncoupling of the genetic programme for fruit development from the one ensuring seed production and, consequently, its evolutionary function. Parthenocarpy is interesting also for applied reasons. It offers the possibility of improving fruit quality and productivity in many crop plants grown for their fruits. Environmental conditions adverse for pollen production, germination and fertilization negatively affect fruit production and quality. Thus, parthenocarpy is considered the most efficient way to produce fruits under environmental conditions adverse for pollination and/or fertilization. Moreover, in some crops the absence of seeds can improve fruit quality (e.g., eggplant), while in other plant species (e.g., Actinidia) parthenocarpy might also improve productivity because pollinator plants are no longer needed. Lastly, parthenocarpy allows early fruit production and harvest. Thus, parthenocarpy represents a tool to rationalize and improve fruit quality and production in the plant species grown for their fruits.