The volatile compounds emitted by hot pepper (Capsicum frutescens L.) flowers play a crucial role in plant-insect interaction and natural insect resistance. This study aimed to analyze the volatile compound (VoC) profile of hot pepper flowers derived from four genotypes, comprising two parental lines and their two F1 hybrids. Volatiles’ sampling used the HS-SPME (Headspace-Solid Phase Micro Extraction), analyzed via GC–MS (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry), and identified using the NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) 14 spectral reference. VoCs entailed groupings based on the presence or absence of each compound. Data then underwent the principal component analysis (PCA). The study identified 133 volatile compounds in the flowers of the parental genotype and its F1 hybrid. F1 hybrid flowers obtained through cross-hybridization between the parental lines exhibited varied ratios of volatile compounds. PCA revealed the parental lines (A and B) and their reciprocal F1 hybrids exhibited distinct profiles of volatile compounds. Notably, the F1 hybrids produced additional repellents, such as D-Limonene, cis-jasmone, and farnesol, against insect pests. The analysis displayed 11 interesting pattern variations. Understanding the volatile composition of hot pepper genotypes is beneficial in breeding programs aimed at developing pest-resistant cultivars based on the antixenosis mechanism, thereby enhancing passive plant defense against pests and virus-carrying insects.
Hot pepper (C. frutescens L.), flowers, nectars, volatile compounds, insect resistance, pests, plant defense, repellent, breeding program
The study identified 133 volatile compounds with diverse ratios in four populations of hot pepper (C. frutescens L.). The F1 hybrids produced volatile compounds that act as pest repellents and attractants. These repellents could aid in pest management, especially against Bemisia tabaci and Myzus persicae.