Genetic Diversity on Acerola Quality: A Systematic Review

Abstract Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC.) is a super-fruit with high ascorbic acid content and its quality can be highly affected by the genetic and environmental conditions. This systematic review aims to provide an overview of the influence of genetic variability on acerola quality traits. It was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) recommendations. PubMed, Scopus and SciELO electronic databases were searched using terms acerola, selection, and genotypes. 29 studies were selected after assessing articles for eligibility criteria, which reported data on 22 quality parameters. A high genetic diversity was observed for all quality traits. Soluble solids and ascorbic acid contents are the main parameters determined in studies with acerola. Titratable acidity, SS/TA ratio and pH are also evaluated in most studies. Different studies have already identified possible genotypes for use in acerola breeding programs based on fruit quality, both for launching new cultivars and for use as parents in crosses. Our review is a useful basis for acerola breeding programs and germplasm conservation. Future studies are required to further identify and quantify bioactive compounds in acerolas of different genotypes.