Volatiles from ripe fruits of karaka (Corynocarpus laevigatus J.R. et G. Forst.)

The volatiles from ripe fruits of karaka, Corynocarpus laevigatus J.R et G. Forst. (Corynocarpaceae) were analysed by combined head-space gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. The major volatiles included acetaldehyde; ethanol; and the esters methyl acetate, ethyl acetate methyl 2-methylbutanoate, and ethyl 2-methylbutanoate. Ethylene was detected in only trace quantities. The ethyl ester of butanoic acid was a major contributor to the distinctive smell of the ripe fruit.