A study relating maximum transpiration (L m-2 leaf day-1) to reference evapotranspiration (ETo) for four mango cultivars (Tommy Atkins, Palmer, Haden and Van Dyke, with 14 m², 8 m², 33 m² and 12 m² of leaf area, respectively) was carried out at Embrapa Cassava and Tropical Fruits, in the conditions of Cruz da Almas-BA. Plant transpiration (L. day-1) was estimated by heat balance sensors that were installed on the shoots (models SAG13; SGB9; SGB16; SGB19 e SGB25, Dynamax Inc.). The sensors were installed to the North (N), South (S), East (E), West (W) and Center(C) of each plant. The transpiration per unity leaf area (L.m-2.day-1) varied about 1.58 in average along the studied period and it also varied linearly with the increase in total leaf area, regardless the studied variety. Transpiration (Liters m-2 leaf area day -1) varied from 0.36 to 3.00, according to the atmospheric demand. The maximum transpiration (T) of the four mango varieties (Liters m-2 leaf area day -1) linearly related to ETo (T = 0.44. ETo; r² = 0.78), performing as a reasonable tool for mango crop drip irrigation management.
mango; sap flow; water use
