Potential for the Cultivation of Atemoya Hybrid Fruit Based on Climatic Factors in the Upper Mogiana, Northeast São Paulo State

Abstract

In order to determine whether climatic factors are suitable for atemoya production, and with the goal of providing an alternative crop for agricultural planning and production, the water balance was assessed using temperature and precipitation historic series data for twelve municipalities in the Northeast region of São Paulo State.  Potential evapotranspiration (ETP), water surplus (EXC), water withdrawal (RET), water deficiency (DEF), and water replenishment (REP) were determined through the classical water balance Thornthwaite procedure . With the monthly and annual values of DEF and EXC, we obtained the indices for water (Ih), aridity (Ia), and humidity (Im). Based on the results, it is evident that atemoya can be grown in these areas in the Northeast region of São Paulo State, as it presents favorable temperature and water conditions for crop development.