Evaluation of microclimatic data from a mango orchard for epidemiological studies.
Teixeira A. H. de C., Reis V. C. da S.
Author Affiliation: Embrapa Semi-Arido, 56300-970, Petrolina, PE, Brazil.
: 501-508
Abstract : Data of air temperature, relative humidity, leaf wetness, wind speed and pluvial precipitation were collected in 2001 inside and outside a 10-year-old mango (cv. Tommy Atkins) orchard, irrigated by microsprinklers, to support epidemiological studies in Petrolina, Pernambuco, Brazil. Mathematical models were obtained relating microclimatic with macroclimatic conditions. Inside the orchard, compared with the data from automatic agrometeorological station near the experimental area, the air temperature showed values up to 0.5°C lower and 0.3°C higher at hotter and colder hours, respectively. The air relative humidity reached values 9 and 6% higher, respectively, at hotter and colder hours. The thermal and humidity amplitudes inside the orchard were lower than the outside. Wind speed values inside the orchard were, on the average, up to 1.9 m/sec lower. The values of leaf wetness duration showed a good correlation with the air relative humidity/air temperature index. This last index seems to be a good indication for spore germination conditions.