Agronomic and Nutritional Performance of African Eggplant (Solanum aethiopicum) Cultivars from the Sudanian-Sahelian Zone of Burkina Faso

Abstract

African eggplant (Solanum aethiopicum), which possesses high genetic potential, may adapt better to climate change and offer high fruit yield capacity. In several parts of sub-Saharan Africa, local populations report that the consumption of wild African eggplant can alleviate various ailments. This study was conducted in the Central Plateau of Burkina Faso, under the Sudanian-Sahelian climate. The study aimed to assess the nutritional and food potential of African eggplant cultivars while evaluating their agronomic performance under the influence of an optimal compost dose. The study was conducted starting in June 2024 on an agricultural plot located in Dapelgo. This area is characterised by annual rainfall ranging from 600 to 900 mm and temperatures varying between 18°C and 40°C. The soil at the experimental site was subjected to physicochemical analysis by the National Soil Bureau of Burkina Faso (BUNASOL). The experiment was carried out using a Fisher's randomised block design with three replications. Three morphotypes were studied: dark green-fruited, white-fruited, and purple-fruited morphotypes. Data analysis was performed using RStudio version 4.4.3. A two-factor analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to assess the effects of cultivar and compost dose on morphological and chemical traits. Analysis of variance at the 5% significance level revealed significant differences among the three morphotypes. During and at the end of the experiment, the white-fruited morphotype showed the greatest plant height, as well as the highest number and weight of fruits. The compost dose of 5 t/ha was found to be the most suitable for optimal yield. In terms of biochemical performance, significant differences were also observed among the morphotypes. The dark green-fruited morphotype exhibited the highest contents of iron, sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. Regarding nutritional compounds such as alkaloids and flavonoids, the best results were recorded for the white-fruited morphotype. In contrast, the dark green-fruited morphotype showed higher levels of saponins and phenols. Overall, the 5 t/ha compost dose provided the best outcomes. Amongst the white, green, and purple, the green-fruited morphotype would be more beneficial to consumers due to its chemical and nutritional potential.