Changes in starch, oil, protein and amino acids in developing seeds of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench)

Abstract

The okra seeds of variety Pusa sawani were analysed for protein, non-protein nitrogen, total free amino acids, lysine, and tryptophan from the 7th day to the 42nd day after flowering. Starch, total sugars and oil percent were also estimated in these seeds. During the early stages of maturation, the soluble components (non-protein nitrogen, free amino acids and total sugars) were found in higher quantities than in the later stages. Protein, oil and starch contents increased gradually from day 7 to day 42. The rate of accumulation of oil was found to be at the highest level between 21–28 days after flowering, while the rate of protein deposition was greatest between days 35–42. Inditiation of seed maturation seems to start 21 days after flowering in okra seeds.