Abstract:Climate change presents significant challenges to the global production of fruit crops, impacting both their productivity and quality. Effects of climate change are becoming prominent recently in form of rising temperature, uneven and altered precipitation patterns and an increase in extreme weather events are becoming noticeable. These changes directly influence maturity and development of fruit crops, leading to shifts in phenology, modifications in fruit yield, and alterations in fruit composition. Heat stress during flowering and fruit set stages can have detrimental effects on fruit production, while irregular rainfall patterns can disrupt pollination and elevate the risk of pests and diseases. Elevated levels of carbon dioxide can also impact the quality characteristics of fruits.
To ensure the continued production and sustainability of fruit crops, building resilience becomes of utmost importance. Resilience involves the capacity of fruit crops to adapt and recover from the impacts of climate change while maintaining productivity and quality. Various strategies can be implemented to enhance resilience in fruit crops, including the breeding and selection of climate-resilient varieties, the adoption of improved agronomic practices, the implementation of efficient irrigation systems, and the utilization of precision farming techniques. Institutional support and policy frameworks play a critical role in promoting resilience within fruit crop systems. It is essential to prioritize interdisciplinary research collaborations among scientists, farmers, policymakers, and stakeholders to develop effective adaptation and mitigation strategies. These collaborations facilitate the exchange of knowledge, experiences, and innovations, contributing to the development of robust resilience in fruit crop systems.