PHYSICO-CHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF COCONUT ECOTYPES IN BENIN COASTAL ZONE

Coconut water is highly consumed for refreshment due to its nutritional value. However, its nutritional value varies according to the ecotype and stage of maturity of ecotype. In order to identify best ecotypes with high nutritious value, a physico-chemical composition of ten (10) ecotypes was performed at earlier stage of maturity (3 months). The measured parameters were: coconut height, mass of water, total sugar content, soluble sugar content, protein, titratable acidity and pH. The obtained results showed that all parameters vary from one ecotype to another. All coconut ecotypes contain water slightly acid with a pH value less than 7. Furthermore, there is no relationship between physical and biochemical parameters. However, within characterized ecotypes, Ecotype_2, appeared to have the best biochemical composition with a significant amount of water. This study provided important informations related to physico-chemical characteristics of coconuts ecotypes found in thecoastal zone.