T stage is an index of harvesting what fruit?

✅Explanation:
The T stage is a maturity index specifically used for apples. It refers to the point in an apple's development when the sepal, the small leaf-like structures at the base of the fruit, detaches cleanly from the apple leaving a distinctive "T" shaped scar. This stage indicates that the apple has reached a certain level of maturity and is starting to transition from cell division and growth to starch conversion and sugar production.

📌Other Options:
• Mango: Mangoes are typically harvested based on a combination of factors like size, color, firmness, and sugar content.
• Citrus: Similar to mangoes, citrus fruits are harvested based on factors like color, firmness, and sometimes peel texture.
• Banana: Bananas are harvested based on hand size and fullness, as well as color changes depending on the variety.

🛑 Related Terminology:
• Maturity indices: These are indicators that help determine the optimal time to harvest a fruit. They can include physical characteristics (size, color, firmness), chemical properties (sugar content, acidity), and physiological factors (ethylene production).
• Starch-to-sugar conversion: During ripening, apples convert starch stored in the fruit to sugars like fructose, which contributes to the sweetness of a ripe apple.