Identification of optimum stage of fruit harvesting for higher lipid accumulation in fruits and kernels of Jatropha curcas L. for bio-fuel production

The present study was conducted to identify the most appropriate stage of harvested fruits of Jatropha curcas in order to get the highest accumulation of lipids and highest seed yield. Fruits were harvested at five different growth stages, i.e. mature green, 25% yellow, 50% yellow, 100% yellow and brown-black fruits. The total oil percentages, total free fatty acid content, total soluble solids content and total seed yield per plant were estimated. The results showed significantly high oil content in fruits harvested at 25% yellow stage. Free fatty acids (FFA) content was found minimum at this stage for least interference in bio diesel production during trans-esterification process. Seed yield per plant was also found maximum at this stage. Thus 25% yellow fruit stage of Jatropha curcas fruits was found best stage for getting higher seed yield and oil percentage and will be easier to harvest and in turn prevent harvesting losses due to decay of dropped fruits on the ground during ripening process.