Olga Doumkou, researcher from Spain affiliated with the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC – CEBAS, Murcia), carried out a Short-Term Scientific Mission (STSM) within the FruitCREWS COST Action. The STSM was hosted by the Cyprus University of Technology (CUT) in Limassol, under the supervision of Dr Atalanti Christou. Olga stayed at the host institution from 22 September to 10 October 2025. The mission focused on understanding how water availability affects carob fruit quality under Mediterranean conditions.
During the STSM, laboratory analyses were performed on carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) fruits collected under complementary irrigation, deficit irrigation, and rainfed conditions. The work evaluated biochemical responses to water stress by analyzing phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, and sugar composition. Standardized extraction methods and spectrophotometric assays were applied, and all data were statistically analyzed to compare the different irrigation treatments. The experimental work followed the initial plan, with minor adjustments to daily laboratory schedules.
The STSM generated new biochemical evidence showing clear differences between irrigated and rainfed fruits, highlighting the strong influence of water availability on fruit composition and antioxidant properties. These results contribute to a better understanding of plant physiological responses to drought in Mediterranean environments and support sustainable fruit production strategies. The mission also strengthened collaboration between the participating institutions and laid the foundation for a joint scientific publication. This STSM was supported by the FruitCREWS COST Action (CA21142).