Diversity in plastids contributes to variation in fruit color

Carotenoid accumulation is an important feature that not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of fruits but also contributes to nutritional value. Plastids, the specialized organelles found in plants, play a crucial role in synthesizing and storing significant amounts of carotenoids. They encompass various types, including proplastids, etioplasts, leucoplasts, chloroplasts, and chromoplasts. These plastids are pivotal in the accumulation, stability, and diversity of carotenoids. During fruit development and ripening, plastid differentiation occurs, accompanied by changes in subplastidial structures, leading to alterations in fruit coloration. In this review, we provide a overview of the diverse types of plastids, their interconversions, as well as variations in size and number, all of which contribute to the distinctive coloration exhibited by fruits. Understanding the fundamental mechanisms underlying chromoplast development and carotenoid accumulation holds great promise for enhancing our knowledge of fruit pigmentation and nutritional quality.