Jhonnel Villegas | Biodiversity and Conservation | Research Excellence Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Jhonnel Villegas | Biodiversity and Conservation | Research Excellence Award 

Assistant Professor | Davao Oriental State University | Philippines

Dr. Jhonnel P. Villegas, MSc, LPT, FASP, is an Assistant Professor IV at Davao Oriental State University and an active Filipino researcher specializing in wildlife ecology, conservation biology, ethnobiology, and gender and environment studies. With academic training in Biology and advanced specialization in Ecology, he has developed a multidisciplinary research portfolio grounded in applied biodiversity science and community-engaged conservation. His professional experience spans leadership roles in research administration, academic program development, and scientific publication, including serving as Director for Research and Publications, Program Head for Political Science, and Editor-in-Chief of the Gender Research and Policy Journal. Dr. Villegas leads and collaborates on research initiatives focused on the conservation of threatened and endemic wildlife species, ecological assessments in protected landscapes, habitat characterization, population monitoring, and human–wildlife conflict mitigation, integrating indigenous knowledge systems and grassroots participation into conservation planning. His projects include extensive field investigations on the Philippine brown deer (Rusa marianna), avian communities of montane and mangrove ecosystems, amphibians and reptiles of biodiversity hotspots, ethnobiological knowledge of indigenous communities, and wildlife trade and utilization trends. A productive scholar with a growing international research footprint, Dr. Villegas has authored peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters, technical reports, and policy-relevant publications contributing to conservation strategies, sustainable resource governance, and environmental education, earning 39 citations across 34 indexed documents and an h-index of 4 reflecting meaningful scholarly impact. He is recognized with research excellence awards and distinctions in extension leadership and scholarly contribution. Dr. Villegas is a Fellow of the Asian Society of Pharmacognosy, a Certified Lecturer of the Philippine Civil Service Commission, and an active member of several professional organizations including the IUCN Deer Specialist Group, Wildlife Conservation Society of the Philippines, and the Philippine Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Through his continuing research, editorial roles, and mentorship, he advances interdisciplinary and science-informed approaches that reinforce biodiversity protection, empower local communities, and support resilient socio-ecological futures in the Philippines and Southeast Asia.

Profiles : Google Scholar | ORCID | Scopus

Featured Publications

Villegas, J., Medina, M. N., & Antonio, E. (2025). An iconic woman scientist: Celebrating a coleopterist’s legacy in an understudied and gendered field of science. Gender Research and Policy Journal.

Garcia, M. M., Tayone, J. C., Regino, R. V., Asaias, V. E., Verzosa, R. C., Jimenez, L. A., Villegas, J. P., Maxey, E. A., Villarubia, G. S. P., & Leal, I. A., et al. (2025). Evaluation of surface sediments of mining silted river–marine ecosystems in Banaybanay, Davao Oriental: Initial step towards regenerative mining. In Book chapter.

Villegas, J. P., Pua, L. R., Vidláková, A., & Ceacero, F. (2025, November 25). Human–wildlife interactions: Cultural sensitivities and perspectives influence the conservation of the Philippine brown deer (Rusa marianna Desmarest, 1822). Animals.

Morales, M. I. D., Bauyot, M. F. M., Binocal, M. A. D. R., Llanita, G. E., Hadia, C. N., Galvez, L. S., & Villegas, J. P. (2025, June 1). Election sustainability through social media: Information from students’ voting preferences in a Philippine university. Discourse and Communication for Sustainable Education.

Aguhob, J., Hamza, W., Reul, A., Musabih, M., Villegas, J. P., & Muñoz, M. (2025, May 4). Spatial distribution and diversity of benthic macrofauna in coastal waters of the Jabal Ali Marine Sanctuary (JAMS), Dubai. Diversity.

Qianqian Wang | Wildlife Conservation | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Qianqian Wang | Wildlife Conservation | Best Researcher Award

Engineer | China Conservation and Research Center | China

Dr. Qingqing Wang is a conservation biologist at the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda in Chengdu, specializing in wildlife ecology, biodiversity monitoring, and molecular biology. Her research integrates field-based ecological surveys with molecular analyses to strengthen conservation strategies for endangered species and ecosystems. Dr. Wang has led and contributed to major biodiversity studies, including camera-trapping surveys revealing mammalian diversity in the Tibetan mountains and species identification and spatial mapping within the Giant Panda National Park. She has also advanced molecular research on aquatic organisms such as the Oriental river prawn and Chinese mitten crab, uncovering gene expression patterns linked to lipid metabolism, stress response, and environmental adaptation. Her publications in high-impact journals such as Global Ecology and Conservation, Animals, and Journal of Crustacean Biology highlight her interdisciplinary expertise and commitment to conservation science. Widely recognized for her academic excellence and research innovation, Dr. Wang has received numerous distinctions including the National Scholarship for Doctoral Students, the Research and Innovation Award for Graduate Students, and the Best Poster Award at the Ecology PhD Student Forum. Through her leadership in biodiversity research and her contributions to ecological understanding and conservation policy, Dr. Wang continues to advance sustainable management and protection of China’s rich biological heritage.

Profile : ORCID

Featured publications

Wang, Q., Yang, B., Chang, J., Wang, X., Chen, X., Li, S., Renzeng, J., Gongqiu, D., & Zhang, L. (2025). The population ecological characteristics of Gongshan Muntjac (Muntiacus gongshanensis) in southeastern Tibet based on camera‐trap technology. Ecology and Evolution, 15(7).

Wang, Q., Yang, B., Zhu, R., Wang, X., Li, S., & Zhang, L. (2024). Unveiling the biodiversity and conservation significance of Medog: A camera-trapping survey on mammals in the southeastern Tibetan mountains. Animals, 14(15), 2188.

Wang, Q., Cai, C., Zhang, J., Shui, D., Cui, G., Wang, Z., Ren, S., Wu, P., & Ye, Y. (2023). Gene cloning, expression pattern, and response to dietary total lipids and phospholipids of hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) in the Oriental river prawn Macrobrachium nipponense De Haan, 1849 (Decapoda: Caridea: Palaemonidae). Journal of Crustacean Biology, 43(2).

Wang, Q., Cai, C., Zhang, J., Shui, D., Cui, G., Wang, Z., Ren, R., Wu, P., & Ye, Y. (2022, July 28). Gene cloning, expression pattern, and response to dietary total lipids and phospholipids of hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) in the Oriental river prawn Macrobrachium nipponense. Preprint.

Wang, Q., Cai, C., Shui, D., Ren, S., Chen, W., Cao, X., Wu, P., Li, T., & Ye, Y. (2018). Identification and characterization of two novel peritrophic membrane (PM) genes in the Chinese mitten crab Eriocheir sinensis that exhibit activity against high-pH stress and Aeromonas hydrophila challenge. Aquaculture Research, 50(2), 473–484.

Dr. Qianqian Wang’s research bridges wildlife ecology and molecular biology to advance biodiversity conservation and sustainable aquaculture. Through pioneering camera‐trap monitoring and gene function studies, her work enhances understanding of ecosystem dynamics and species adaptation supporting global conservation strategies and sustainable resource management.

Tanmay Sanyal | Biodiversity and Conservation | Zoology Honour Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Tanmay Sanyal | Biodiversity and Conservation | Zoology Honour Award

Assistant Professor | Krishnagar Government College | India 

Dr. Tanmay Sanyal’s research integrates zoology, ecology, and environmental science, with a strong emphasis on Fish and Fisheries, Aquatic Toxicology, Limnology, and Biodiversity Conservation. His investigations into the bioaccumulation of heavy metals, particularly chromium, in aquatic organisms have significantly advanced understanding of the ecological and physiological effects of industrial pollutants on freshwater ecosystems. Through his studies, he has explored mechanisms of toxicity, metabolic alterations, and adaptive responses in aquatic fauna, offering critical insights into ecosystem resilience and pollution management. Beyond toxicology, his research encompasses ecological monitoring, water quality assessment, and the sustainable management of fishery resources. Dr. Sanyal’s interdisciplinary approach bridges environmental chemistry, zoology, and sustainability studies, addressing global challenges related to water pollution, biodiversity loss, and environmental health while aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on clean water, life below water, and sustainable communities. He has published extensively in high-impact international journals, including Computers in Biology and Medicine, Journal of Advanced Research, and Human and Ecological Risk Assessment, along with numerous book chapters on environmental management and sustainable development. His scholarly contributions have deepened scientific understanding of aquatic ecosystems, informed environmental policy, and supported conservation efforts. Through his research, Dr. Sanyal continues to promote environmental stewardship, advocating for evidence-based strategies to mitigate pollution, enhance sustainability, and preserve aquatic biodiversity for future generations.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Hui, N., Sanyal, T., & Das, R. (2024). A brief review on solar photovoltaic: A key to sustainable development. In Book of Environmental Sustainability and Development (Chapter 8).

Singh, D., Amitabh, A., Kumar, A., Maurya, A. K., & Naveen, J. (2024). Design and performance evaluation of pyramid, hexagonal and conical forms as solar panels. In Advances in Sustainable Energy Systems (pp. xx–xx). Springer.

Sharma, H. R., Gupta, R. K., Rastogi, P., Singh, N., & Naveen, J. (2024). Design, analysis, and optimization of 2D 3-blade Savonius vertical axis wind turbine. In Advances in Sustainable Energy Systems (pp. xx–xx). Springer.

Dutta, S., Mukherjee, P., Mitra, A., Guha, B., Ganguly, B. B., & Sanyal, T. (2024). Diaphonization: Enhancing efforts toward achieving SDGs 10, 14, and 15. In Book of Environmental Sustainability and Development (Chapter 13).

Das, S. K., Sen, K., Sanyal, T., Saha, A., & Madhu, N. R. (2024). Flavonoids: A promising neuroprotectant and its salutary effects on age-related neurodegenerative disorders. In Neuroprotective Phytochemicals: Advances and Perspectives (pp. xx–xx). Springer.

Dr. Tanmay Sanyal’s research bridges environmental science, zoology, and sustainable technology, focusing on renewable energy, pollution mitigation, and aquatic ecosystem conservation. His interdisciplinary work advances sustainability, environmental resilience, and human well-being in line with the UN SDGs.

Charles Sprouse III | Integral Ecology | Best Faculty Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Charles Sprouse III | Integral Ecology | Best Faculty Award

Doctor at Benedictine College, United States

Dr. Charles Edward Sprouse III is an accomplished academician and researcher specializing in mechanical engineering and physics. With expertise in sustainability, life cycle assessment, and integral ecology, he has significantly contributed to environmental stewardship and emissions reduction technologies. His research in low-temperature power cycles and organic Rankine cycles has gained widespread recognition, influencing academia and industry. As a dedicated educator, Dr. Sprouse has mentored 21 student research projects, some of which have won prestigious awards. His professional affiliations include ASME, ASEE, and SAE, reflecting his deep engagement with the engineering community. With 21 peer-reviewed journal publications and 46 completed research projects, he continues to advance engineering solutions for energy efficiency and environmental impact reduction. Dr. Sprouse’s commitment to integrating technology with sustainability principles makes him a leading figure in mechanical and environmental engineering research.

Professional Profiles📖

Education  🎓

Dr. Sprouse holds advanced degrees in Physics and Mechanical Engineering, equipping him with a strong interdisciplinary foundation for addressing complex engineering challenges. His academic journey includes rigorous training in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and sustainable energy systems. Throughout his studies, he developed expertise in waste heat recovery, emissions control, and renewable energy technologies. His research explored environmental impacts in energy applications, leading to groundbreaking innovations in organic Rankine cycles. Dr. Sprouse actively participated in academic societies, earning memberships in Pi Tau Sigma (ΠΤΣ) and Tau Beta Pi (ΤΒΠ), prestigious engineering honor societies. His education has laid the foundation for his impactful career in both academia and industry, blending theoretical knowledge with practical applications. His commitment to lifelong learning is reflected in his continuous contributions to engineering research, education, and sustainability initiatives.

Experience 🏢

With a diverse and impactful career, Dr. Sprouse has made significant contributions as a researcher, educator, and consultant. At Benedictine College, he has taught 21 engineering courses, covering fundamental and advanced topics in mechanical engineering. His mentorship of 21 student research projects has led to award-winning work in sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Dr. Sprouse’s research has focused on waste heat recovery, emissions abatement, and energy-efficient power cycles, leading to 21 journal publications and over 46 research projects. His consultancy experience spans life cycle assessment, sustainability planning, and thermofluidic system monitoring. Industry collaborations have allowed him to bridge academic research with real-world applications, particularly in solar energy, geothermal energy, and automotive emissions reduction.

His commitment to engineering education and research innovation has earned him recognition in professional societies like ASME, ASEE, and SAE. Through his experience, he continues to drive advancements in energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Awards & Honors 🏆

Dr. Sprouse’s excellence in research, teaching, and environmental innovation has been recognized through multiple awards and honors. He has guided two student projects that won the Dr. Wangari Maathai Discovery Awards for outstanding contributions to sustainability, environmental justice, and women’s equality.

His co-authored research on waste heat recovery using organic Rankine cycles was the most downloaded article in mechanical engineering in 2013, among approximately 20,000 eligible works. This recognition highlights the significance of his contributions to energy efficiency and emissions control.

Dr. Sprouse’s professional impact is further acknowledged through memberships in Pi Tau Sigma (ΠΤΣ), Tau Beta Pi (ΤΒΠ), ASME, ASEE, and SAE, reflecting his influence in mechanical engineering and academia. His work continues to shape sustainability-focused engineering practices, bridging research with industry innovation.

Skills💡

Dr. Sprouse possesses a diverse skill set that seamlessly integrates engineering expertise, sustainability analysis, and academic mentorship. His technical proficiency spans thermodynamics and heat transfer, with a specialization in waste heat recovery and low-temperature power cycles. He is well-versed in life cycle assessment (LCA), allowing him to evaluate the environmental impact of energy and industrial systems. His expertise in computational modeling and simulation enables him to conduct in-depth energy efficiency analyses, while his knowledge of renewable energy systems encompasses solar, geothermal, and alternative energy applications. Additionally, he is highly skilled in sustainability planning, providing consultancy on eco-friendly designs and emissions reduction strategies. Beyond his technical acumen, Dr. Sprouse excels in academic and research-oriented skills, including technical writing and publishing, with 21 peer-reviewed journal articles to his credit. He is also a dedicated mentor and educator, guiding students in research projects and engineering concepts. His industry collaborations further highlight his ability to bridge academic research with real-world applications, driving engineering solutions for a more sustainable future.

Research Focus🔬

Dr. Sprouse’s research is centered on sustainability, waste heat recovery, and energy-efficient power cycles. His expertise in low-temperature power cycles, particularly organic Rankine cycles (ORCs), has led to significant advancements in thermal pollution reduction and natural refrigerant applications.

His work in environmental impact assessment integrates life cycle analysis (LCA) to ensure long-term sustainability in renewable energy systems, deep geothermal energy, and MW-scale solar arrays. He also explores integral ecology and emissions abatement, developing technologies to minimize the environmental footprint of energy production.

A key focus of his research is automotive and industrial emissions reduction, where he has introduced an aftertreatment device that filters particulate matter while recovering heat for supplementary power generation. His findings have been widely cited and have influenced an increase in commercial ORC technology applications.

Dr. Sprouse remains committed to bridging engineering innovations with environmental responsibility, driving research that contributes to clean energy solutions.

Conclusion✅

Publications Top Notes📚

“Integral Ecology Approach to Life Cycle Assessment of Solar Arrays”​

Journal: Solar Compass​

Publication Date: March 2025​

DOI: 10.1016/j.solcom.2024.100104​

Citations: As of April 2, 2025, specific citation metrics are not available.​

“Review of Organic Rankine Cycles for Internal Combustion Engine Waste Heat Recovery: Latest Decade in Review”​

Journal: Sustainability​

Publication Date: February 26, 2024​

DOI: 10.3390/su16051924​

Citations: As of April 2, 2025, specific citation metrics are not available.​

“A Critical Survey of Environmental Content in United States Undergraduate Mechanical Engineering Curricula”​

Journal: Sustainability​

Publication Date: June 21, 2021​

DOI: 10.3390/su13126961​​

Citations: As of April 2, 2025, specific citation metrics are not available.​

“Advancing Pervious Pavements through Nomenclature, Standards, and Holistic Green Design”​

Journal: Sustainability​

Publication Date: September 2020​

DOI: 10.3390/su12187422​

Citations: As of April 2, 2025, specific citation metrics are not available.

Jamal Ayour | Biodiversity and Conservation | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Jamal Ayour | Biodiversity and conservation | Best Researcher Award

Prof at Agadir Superior School of Technology, Morocco

M. Jamal Ayour is an expert in food science and technology with a focus on nutrition, biotechnology, and agricultural sciences. He holds dual PhDs from INRAE and the University of Marrakech, Morocco, and has extensive professional experience in both academia and research. He currently serves as a Research Professor at the Superior School of Technology, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco. Ayour has been involved in numerous international research projects, particularly in the fields of food technology and genetic selection of agricultural products. He has authored multiple influential publications and has a significant impact on the global food science community. His expertise includes formulating food products, supplements, and antioxidants, as well as applying biotechnology to improve food quality and nutritional value.

Professional Profiles📖

Scopus

Education 🎓

M. Jamal Ayour earned his PhD in Agricultural Sciences from INRAE – Avignon University, France (2019), and his PhD in Biotechnology and Food Science from the University of Marrakech, Morocco (2018). He also holds a Master’s degree in Food Technology (2012) and a Bachelor’s degree in Quality Control of Agri-food Products (2010), both from the University of Marrakech. His academic training in these disciplines provided a robust foundation in the scientific study of food quality, biotechnology, and agricultural sciences, which has greatly contributed to his successful career as a researcher and educator.

Work Experience💼

M. Jamal Ayour has gained diverse experience in both industry and academia. He worked as an Engineer in Biochemistry & Biotechnology at the Reformation Center of Agricultural and Agrifood, Paris, France. Additionally, Ayour was a Professor of Dietetics and Nutrition at College de Paris – Keyce Academy. His role as an International Research Project Manager at INRAE involved leading cutting-edge research on genetic selection and industrial processing of fleshy fruits. Ayour’s academic journey includes his current position as a Research Professor at the Superior School of Technology, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco, where he focuses on food science, biotechnology, and agricultural research.

Awards and Honors 🏆

M. Jamal Ayour has received several accolades throughout his career in recognition of his research excellence and contributions to food science and technology. His expertise in formulating food products and researching nutritional and biochemical criteria of agricultural products has garnered him recognition within both the academic and professional spheres. Ayour’s work on apricot genetic selection and his involvement in international research projects have been influential in advancing food biotechnology. His ongoing contributions to the field are acknowledged through various honors and research collaborations across Europe and Africa.

Skills 💡

M. Jamal Ayour is proficient in various research and analytical techniques. He has expertise in formulating food products, supplements, antioxidants, and cosmetic products. He is well-versed in statistical software such as R, XLSTAT, SPSS, and MATLAB, which he uses for data analysis in food technology research. Ayour is also skilled in bioinformatics, including using software like Libmol, GenALEx, and MEGA6 for genomic studies. Additionally, he is proficient in teaching and using digital tools, including Moodle and Genially, to enhance learning experiences. His technical expertise is complemented by certifications in food quality control, metrology, and project management.

Research Focus 🔬

M. Jamal Ayour’s research primarily focuses on food science, biotechnology, and agricultural technology. His work includes studying the nutritional, technological, and biochemical properties of fruits, particularly apricots, and their potential for industrial processing. He is involved in genetic selection to improve fruit quality and in the development of innovative food formulations, including supplements and antioxidants. Ayour’s research also explores the enzymatic activity control in fruit ripening, contributing significantly to the food industry’s understanding of processing and storage techniques. His projects aim to bridge the gap between food science research and practical applications.

Conclusion✅

M. Jamal Ayour is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His expertise in food science, agricultural biotechnology, and nutrition research, combined with his academic contributions and international collaboration, makes him an exemplary figure in his field. His innovative work in food technology and genetic research has not only advanced scientific knowledge but also has practical applications in the food industry. By enhancing public engagement and broadening the scope of his research to include sustainability and digital innovation, he could further solidify his position as a leading researcher globally.

Publications Top Notes📚

Genetic diversity assessment towards core collection construction of Moroccan apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) germplasm using genomic SSR markers
South African Journal of Botany (2025)
DOI: 10.1016/j.sajb.2025.02.038

Valorizing Coffee Grounds: Bioactive Compounds and Innovative Technologies for Industrial By-Product Utilization
Conference Paper (2024)
DOI: 10.3390/ICC2024-18167

Cell Wall Enzymatic Activity Control: A Reliable Technique in the Fruit Ripening Process
Food Science and Nutrition (2024)
DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.113752

Date seeds (Phoenix Dactylifera L.) valorization: chemical composition of lipid fraction
Brazilian Journal of Biology (2024)
DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.260771

Evolution of pigments and their relationship with skin color and sensory profile in date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.)
Brazilian Journal of Biology (2024)
DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.252426

Inhibitive Properties of Date Seed Extracts (Phoenix Dactylifera L.) on Mild Steel Corrosion in 1M HCl Solution: Experimental and DFT Studies
Biointerface Research in Applied Chemistry (2023)
DOI: 10.33263/BRIAC135.427

Assessment of Phenotypic Diversity of Some Local Moroccan Date Palm Varieties and Clones (Phoenix Dactylifera L.) from the Zagora Region, Southern Morocco
Jordan Journal of Biological Sciences (2022)
DOI: 10.54319/jjbs/150416

Evaluation of some nutritional quality criteria of seventeen Moroccan dates varieties and clones, fruits of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera l.)
Brazilian Journal of Biology (2022)
DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.236471

Phenolic profiling in ten apricot clones using an efficient method (Thioacidolysis-UFLC) and determination of their antioxidant potential
Food Bioscience (2022)
DOI: 10.1016/j.fbio.2022.101880

Assessment of Nutritional, Technological, and Commercial Apricot Quality Criteria of the Moroccan Cultivar “Maoui” Compared to Introduced Spanish Cultivars “Canino” and “Delpatriarca” towards Suitable Valorization
Journal of Food Quality (2021)
DOI: 10.1155/2021/6679128

Changes in cell wall neutral sugar composition related to pectinolytic enzyme activities and intra-flesh textural property during ripening of ten apricot clones
Food Chemistry (2021)
DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2020.128096

Relationships between Biochemical Criteria, Volatile Compounds, and Sensory Profiles of Ten Apricot Clones at Commercial and Consumption Ripening Stages
Journal of Food Quality (2020)
DOI: 10.1155/2020/8873835

Bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity of seventeen Moroccan date varieties and clones (Phoenix dactylifera L.)
South African Journal of Botany (2019)
DOI: 10.1016/j.sajb.2018.12.004

Contribution to the study of genetic diversity and searching for physicochemical and biochemical parameters as indicators of quality during the maturation of fresh apricot fruits and after processing
Avignon University (2018)

Postharvest technologies for shelf life enhancement of temperate fruits
Postharvest Biology and Technology of Temperate Fruits (2018)
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-75163-4_4

Evolution of some fruit quality criteria during ripening of twelve new Moroccan apricot clones (Prunus armeniaca L.)
Scientia Horticulturae (2017)
DOI: 10.1016/j.scienta.2016.12.010

Impact of cooking on apricot texture as a function of cultivar and maturity
LWT (2017)
DOI: 10.1016/j.lwt.2016.10.040

Evolution of pigments and their relationship with skin color based on ripening in fruits of different Moroccan genotypes of apricots (Prunus armeniaca L.)
Scientia Horticulturae (2016)
DOI: 10.1016/j.scienta.2016.05.027