Morphological characterization and biostimulation of growth, production, and quality of ‘chiltepín’ (Capsicum annuum var. glabriusculum) using an agroecological approach

Of the primary challenge faced in the domestication of chiltepín (Capsicum annuum L. var. glabriusculum [Dunal] Heiser & Pickersgill), the specific requirements of its natural habitat are most important. Therefore, the objective of this research was to conduct a morphological characterization of chiltepín and evaluate the impact of biostimulants on its growth, production, and quality when cultivated outside its native environment. The study was conducted using a completely randomized block design with four treatments (T1-BF, T2-RT, T3-RB, and T4-Ctrl), four replications, and five plants per experimental unit. Morphological analyses revealed significant phenotypic variability between the wild and domesticated varieties, reflecting ecological adaptations and selective pressures that have shaped its evolution. Additionally, the chiltepín showed an outstanding response to biostimulant treatments, particularly T1-BF and T2-RT; these treatments had a significant impact on plant growth and development, improving parameters such as height, stem diameter, chlorophyll content, and canopy density during the first 30 days after transplanting (DAT). Furthermore, these treatments enhanced fruit production and quality, increasing fresh weight (47%), dry weight (46%), length, and length-to-width ratio. These results not only highlight the value of the knowledge gained about the phenotypic features of chiltepín, but also the potential of the agroecological approach using biostimulants to optimize the development, production, and quality of this crop.