A Fruit Growth Model Dependent on Both Carbon Supply and Inherent Fruit Characteristics

A mathematical model of carbon accumulation by growing fruit is presented. The model implicitly incorporates the concepts of sink activity and sink size but avoids the need to stipulate sink strength. In addition to sink activity and size, carbon accumulation depends on characteristics such as photosynthesis and respiration of the fruit itself as well as carbon supply via the peduncle attachment. Simulations with prescribed limitations of carbon supply show similar results to field observations. The proposed model coupled with a carbon distribution/supply model could simulate the growth of individual fruit within a heterogeneous canopy.