Biochemical Seed Traits of Camelina sativa – An Emerging Oilseed Crop for Biofuel: Environmental and Genetic Influences

Abstract

Camelina (Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz) is an attractive alternative and sustainable oilseed crop for multipurpose uses, including as a biofuel feedstock. To evaluate the value of C. sativa in Lombardia (north Italy), seven genotypes were cultivated under different climates of two consecutive years and growing seasons; quality and quantity of seed, oil, and flour were analyzed. Genotypes mainly influenced seed weight (0.98–1.56 g/1000 seeds), protein (245-401 mg/g), glucosinolates, and phytic acid. Oil content (27.5%–37.2%) and fatty acid (FA) composition varied with year and growing season among genotypes. Oils were rich in linolenic and linoleic acids (68.4%–80.8%). The monounsaturated acids ranged from 16.4%–25.6%, although erucic acid was much lower at 4.30%. Saturated FAs represented a small fraction. Low free FAs content (0.01%–0.81%) and different amounts of tocopherols (0.44-2.69 μg/mg) in oils depended on years. Correlations among seed and biochemical traits were found. Genotypes with low protein and high phytic acid contents would not be the best for flour quality. Genotypes showing high levels of protein and C18:3/C18:2 fatty acids ratio could be useful for humans and livestock. Genotype with relatively high C18:1 fatty acid content can be used mainly for biofuel production. Altogether, the data indicated that C. sativa cultivation could be promoted as an economically profitable oilseed crop in north Italian environments.