Oilseed Crop Research Articles

Applications of Molecular Marker Implementation for Enhanced Oilseed Breeding through Marker-Assisted Selection (Mas)

Oilseed crops are fundamental for various industrial and food purposes, necessitating advancements in breeding strategies to meet growing demands. Molecular markers and Marker-Assisted Selection (MAS) have emerged as powerful tools in oilseed crop improvement. This review explores the diverse applications of molecular markers and MAS in oilseed crops, highlighting their significance in enhancing breeding efficiency and genetic gains. The primary aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the application of molecular markers and MAS in oilseed crop breeding programs. Specifically, it aims to synthesize existing literature and case studies to elucidate the methodologies, advancements, and outcomes associated with the integration of molecular markers and MAS in oilseed crop improvement. The review highlights significant advancements in the application of molecular markers and MAS in oilseed crop breeding. Molecular markers have been extensively utilized for trait mapping, genetic diversity analysis, and selection of desirable genotypes with traits such as high oil content, disease resistance, and abiotic stress tolerance. Integration with conventional breeding methods has facilitated the development of elite oilseed crop varieties with improved agronomic performance and stress resilience. In conclusion, molecular markers and MAS represent valuable tools for accelerating oilseed crop breeding programs. Their integration has led to increased breeding efficiency, precision, and genetic gains. However, challenges such as marker validation, cost-effectiveness, and trait complexity remain to be addressed. Future research efforts should focus on refining marker technologies, enhancing trait mapping studies, and promoting the adoption of MAS in oilseed crop breeding to ensure sustainable production and global food security.

Optimization of kanamycin dose for in vitro Camelina sativa transformation

Camelina sativa is an underutilized oilseed crop that can be grown under different climate conditions. As its requirements for growth are relatively low with a short life cycle, it can be utilized in marginal lands for crop rotations. Camelina shows great promise as a source of food, feed, chemicals, and biofuel. Enabling the genetic transformation of C. sativa would facilitate the fast incorporation of new characteristics into this growing crop. Moreover, genetic and metabolic engineering can be applied to decrease unwanted secondary metabolites as well as boost the beneficial products. Kanamycin is one of the most used antibiotics in plant transformation. Here, the effects of kanamycin on the seeds of Camelina were analyzed by observing different parameters such as germination, seedlings, shoot, and root growth as well as its fresh and dry weight. Prevalent effects of kanamycin were shortening of root and shoot length, thinning of shoots, and discoloration. Also, true leaves could not grow in the presence of the antibiotic. Based on these results using 100mg/L kanamycin as an additive to the growth media in tissue culture would allow the selection of transformant plants and allow them to grow as transgenic plants for desired purposes.

Cold‐pressing, ethanol defatting, and saline extraction enhances properties of protein products from new pennycress varieties (covercress™)

AbstractPennycress (Thlaspi arvense L.), a winter oilseed and cover crop, is a source of novel proteins and oil for biofuel. New yellow‐seeded pennycress specialty varieties, named covercress™, were developed via conventional breeding and gene editing, but protein characteristics are still unknown. This work evaluated two covercress lines, TT8 and Y1126, for protein extraction and functionality, and the combination of cold‐pressing, alcohol‐defatting, and saline extraction to produce a protein that could align better with clean labeling. Seeds were first cold‐pressed in a tubular radial expeller then defatted at 60°C with anhydrous ethanol (‐Eth) or hexane (‐Hex) until ≤0.8% residual oil. Protein was extracted from defatted press cake (PC) using the saline method (0.1 M NaCl, 1: 10 w/v, 50°C, 2 h) for hexane‐defatted wild‐type pennycress (WTP) seed meal and PC. TT8 PC had 33%–67% more globulin and glutelin than WTP PC, but ethanol defatting reduced albumin + globulin amounts by 14%–32%. TT8 PC protein recoveries (63% and 40%) were 2‐ to 3‐fold greater than that of Y1126 PC‐Eth and their extracts had greater purity (85%–91% vs. 70% protein). Y1126 PC‐Eth protein showed a nearly constant 68%–70% solubility from pH 2 to 10, but TT8 PC‐Eth protein was more soluble in acidic pH (87%–90% solubility). Y1126 PC‐Eth protein showed greater foaming capacity (146–150 mL), while TT8 PC‐Eth protein had superior emulsifying properties (EAI 141–236 m2/g protein and ESI 13–26 min). This work demonstrated the enhanced functionality of TT8 and Y1126 proteins produced from an environmentally friendly and industrially relevant method.

A Study on Yield and Value Sustainability in Groundnut (Arachis hypogea) Through Cluster Frontline Demonstrations Approach in Cuddalore District of Tamil Nadu

Background: Groundnut is a prominent oilseed crop in India but its productivity is far below the potential yield due to lack of knowledge and adoption of improved varieties and technologies. Technology gap is a major problem in groundnut production in North Eastern zone of Tamil Nadu State in which Cuddalore district falls. A scientific and systematic effort was made to study the impact on yield by assessing technological gap existing in various components of groundnut cultivation through cluster frontline demonstrations (CFLDs) with scientific technologies. Methods: Cluster Frontline Demonstrations was implemented in groundnut to improve the production potential of improved varieties and new technologies through Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK). The study with one of its objective to assess yield and technology gap in groundnut was conducted with 175 demonstrations during the period from 2020-21 to 2022-23 covering seven blocks in an area of 70 hectares in Cuddalore district following cluster random sampling method. Two main varieties VRI 8 and VRI 10 along with improved technologies were demonstrated in farmer’s field by providing necessary critical inputs seed pods, bio control agents along with seed drill sowing, Result: There resulted 62.13 per cent increase in yield as observed in demonstration plots over farmers’ practices in groundnut. The study revealed that in groundnut, the average extension gap (difference of demo and farmer plot yield) is 16.26 q/ha, average technology gap (difference of potential and demo plot yield) is 12.21 q/ha and average technology index of demonstrations is 22.21 per cent. The higher average net returns (Rs. 149758/ha) were recorded in demonstration plot (BCR 2.3) compared to farmers’ plot. The Sustainability Yield Index (SYI) and Sustainability Value Index (SVI) in demo plot are higher consistently than farmers plot mainly due to the effect of cluster frontline demonstrations with proper application of inputs/technologies viz., VRI 8 and VRI 10 varieties, seed treatment with bio fertilizers, bio control agents, soil test based nutrient management, application of TNAU crop booster groundnut rich and gypsum application.

Optimizing Weed Control: A Review of Integrated Weed Management in Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

Mustard (Brassica juncea L.), a species of the cruciferous family, is the world's third most significant oilseed crop, following soybean and palm. Mustard seeds range in oil content from 37 to 49%. India is the fourth-largest producer of mustard and rapeseed in the world. The most significant issue causing mustard's low yield is weed control. Crop yields are significantly reduced by weeds; in the case of mustard, this can mean a complete failure rate of 15–30%. Crop plants compete with weeds for nutrients, sunlight, space, and water. In addition to lowering crop quality, weeds pose a number of nutritional and environmental hazards. In mustard crops, weed competition is particularly important in the early stages since the crop grows slowly in the first 4–8 weeks after sowing. On the other hand, 15–40 days are the critical window for crop–weed competition. Weed control must be carried out appropriately and on time in order to maximize mustard growth and production. During the early stages of crop growth, 25–30 days after sowing, the traditional practice of hand weeding once is insufficient because weeds always reappear after manual weeding, irrigation, or winter rainfall. More importantly, though, is that these weeds drain a large amount of the soil's moisture and nutrients. Though hand weeding mustard is simple, the expense of doing so is significant due to the scarcity of labor at the appropriate time and the uncontrolled growth of various intra row weeds. Weeds may become tolerant of herbicides despite their regular and high dosage application. Therefore, combined approaches could be the best option to control the complex weed flora in mustard.

Modulating Growth and Oil Profile of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.): Paclobutrazol and Mepiquat Chloride Impacts

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is an important oilseed crop with significant economic importance in many developing countries. This study rigorously investigated the impact of various applications and doses of two specific plant growth regulators, paclobutrazol (PAC) and mepiquat chloride (MC), on the development, yield components, oil content, and fatty acid composition of sesame plants across two consecutive growing seasons. The research revealed that while paclobutrazol application increased the plant height it also resulted in a slight decrease in oil content. The paclobutrazol treatment resulted in the highest seed yield (21.3 g/plant), which was significantly different from both the MC (13.1 g/plant) and PAC + MC (14.6 g/plant) treatments. In contrast, the mepiquat chloride treatment resulted in the lowest oil content. The combined application of both regulators showed intermediate effects. In addition, variations in fatty acid content were observed between applications and doses, with significant differences in saturated and unsaturated fatty acid levels. The findings provide valuable insights into the potential benefits and implications of using growth regulators in sesame cultivation, especially in the context of mechanized harvesting and oil quality optimization.

Role of Sulphur Nutrition in Oilseed Crops: A Review

India is a significant importer of edible oils and an important producer of oilseed. India stands as fourth leading oilseeds producing countries after USA, China and Brazil. Oilseed has become one of the most valuable agricultural commodities. Sulphur (S) plays an important role in determining the quality of oil seed from these crops. It is referred to as the fourth major nutrient after N, P and K because crops need sulphur slightly less than they require P. It is required for the formation of proteins, vitamins and chlorophyll. It is an integral part of amino acid such as cystine, cysteine and methionine which are essential components of protein. Plant can absorb sulphur in the form of sulphate (SO4 2-) which is decomposes into sulphur. It is a factor for the determination of higher yield seed and quality of seed that content oil in oilseed crops. Since, sulphur is immobile in plants, it must be continuously supplied from crop emergence till maturity. So, reduced yield can come sulphur shortage at any stage of growth. It can be overcome by supplying sulphur containing fertilizers to plant by soil application and foliar application. Among the source of sulphur, elemental sulphur and gypsum are widely utilized in sulphur deficiency.

Enhancing Sesame Yield in Arid Conditions through NPK Fertilizer Optimization

Sesame, an important oilseed crop and valuable source of protein, plays a central role in global agriculture. This study, conducted during the 2021-2022 Kharif season at Karor Adaptive Research Farm (ARF), Layyah, Pakistan, aimed to optimize the use of NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) fertilizers to increase sesame yield under dry conditions. Our research aimed to determine the most effective application rates of NPK fertilizer (34:24:12) kg/acre for sesame variety TH-6 in the region, consistent with the objectives of maximizing sesame yield and biomass accumulation. The experimental design RCBD included multiple treatments, with meticulous attention to plot sizes, replicates, and robust data collection and analysis methods. These measures ensure the reliability of our results and their potential applicability to similar agroclimatic conditions. The use of NPK fertilizer at the rate of (113:113:60) kg ha-1 in ARF gave promising results. A maximum grain yield of 765.3 kg ha-1 was observed in 2021, exceeding the yield of 738.6 kg ha-1 in 2022. Similarly, the use of NPK (113:113:60) kg ha-1 in a farmer's field resulted in a maximum grain yield of 828.6 kg ha-1 in 2021, as opposed to 702.6 kg ha-1 in 2022. These results highlight the potential of NPK fertilizer application combined with optimal field practices to increase sesame yield and its components under the challenging agro-climatic conditions of Karor, Layyah. The discussion interprets the results and emphasizes the importance of NPK fertilizers for sesame cultivation. Although our primary focus is not on climate discussions, the consistent methodology in both years, from sowing to harvesting, revealed significant differences in yield and growth parameters, leading to climate change being considered as a potential contributing factor. This study shows that the application of NPK fertilizer at the rate of (113:113:60) kg ha-1 can significantly increase sesame yield under adverse conditions.

Novel indices reveal that pollinator exposure to pesticides varies across biological compartments and crop surroundings

Declines in insect pollinators have been linked to a range of causative factors such as disease, loss of habitats, the quality and availability of food, and exposure to pesticides. Here, we analysed an extensive dataset generated from pesticide screening of foraging insects, pollen-nectar stores/beebread, pollen and ingested nectar across three species of bees collected at 128 European sites set in two types of crop. In this paper, we aimed to (i) derive a new index to summarise key aspects of complex pesticide exposure data and (ii) understand the links between pesticide exposures depicted by the different matrices, bee species and apple orchards versus oilseed rape crops. We found that summary indices were highly correlated with the number of pesticides detected in the related matrix but not with which pesticides were present. Matrices collected from apple orchards generally contained a higher number of pesticides (7.6 pesticides per site) than matrices from sites collected from oilseed rape crops (3.5 pesticides), with fungicides being highly represented in apple crops. A greater number of pesticides were found in pollen-nectar stores/beebread and pollen matrices compared with nectar and bee body matrices. Our results show that for a complete assessment of pollinator pesticide exposure, it is necessary to consider several different exposure routes and multiple species of bees across different agricultural systems.

Does carinata, an oilseed crop for sustainable aviation fuel, improve the eco-efficiency of crop rotations in South Georgia, United States?

In 2019, the aviation sector emitted about five percent of the total energy-related carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions in the United States. The replacement of conventional aviation fuel with drop-in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) derived from various biomass-based feedstocks is vital to reduce the overall CO2e emissions of the aviation sector. The SAF derived from Brassica carinata (carinata), an oilseed winter crop, could help the aviation sector mitigate CO2e emissions. Therefore, it is vital to develop a framework for assessing the eco-effectiveness of carinata in crop rotations by combining economic and environmental benefits. We identified 292 crop rotations (over a four-year rotation period with and without carinata) in South Georgia, a major agricultural region of the United States. We conducted a comprehensive life cycle assessment to determine the total carbon emissions of selected crop rotations. We combined the carbon emissions and profitability information using data envelopment analysis (DEA) to estimate the eco-efficiency score of each crop rotation. The results indicate that crop rotations with carinata emit less CO2e than crop rotations without it, especially when carinata replaces winter wheat. Carinata's profitability (net present value of $2996/acre) is highest in a “corn-corn-soybean” rotation at a contract price of $441 per metric ton. Finally, “cotton-carinata-cotton-fallow-soybean-fallow-cotton-carinata” is the most eco-efficient rotation at the same contract price. Overall, carinata increases eco-efficiency at the farm level and, thereby, has the potential to promote the bioeconomy in South Georgia and beyond.

Impact of Humic Acid and Sulphur application on growth and yield of Indian Mustard under variable Water moisture regimes

Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) is an important oilseed crop cultivated in various regions of the world, particularly in India. However, its productivity faces limitations due to various abiotic factors, notably variable soil moisture. This study aimed to explore the influence of humic acid and sulphur application on Indian mustard growth and yield within different moisture regimes. A field experiment was conducted in rabi season, employing a split plot design with four replications. Four moisture treatments were imposed: (1) no post sowing irrigation, (2) one post sowing irrigation (3) two post sowing irrigation and (4) three post sowing irrigation. Within each moisture regime, four treatment groups were established: (A) control (no application), (B) humic acid alone, (C) sulphur alone, and (D) a combination of humic acid and sulphur. The results revealed significant improvements in various growth and yield parameters when humic acid and sulphur were applied, particularly under moisture stress conditions. Application of humic acid and sulphur enhanced root development, chlorophyll content, and photosynthetic rate, which ultimately led to increased plant height, leaf area, and biomass accumulation. Notably, the combined application exhibited synergistic effects, resulting in the highest yield increments, especially under severe moisture stress. This study provides valuable insights into the potential advantages of incorporating humic acid and sulphur as soil amendments in Indian mustard cultivation, particularly in moisture-variable regions. The results highlight the combined application’s effectiveness in mitigating water scarcity effects, thereby promoting sustainable agriculture and bolstering food security.

Performance and Instability of Oilseed Crops in Pakistan

This comprehensive study spanning from 1971-72 to 2021-22 consistently discerned distinct patterns of variability and instability within Pakistan's oilseed crops. Analyzing instability in the cultivation area, yield, and production of oilseed crops is crucial for effective planning and strategy formulation. The study encompasses the analysis of nine oilseed crops, namely cotton, rapeseed-mustard (including canola), sesame, groundnut, sunflower, castor seed, linseed, soybean, and safflower. The Coefficient of Variation (CV) and the Cuddy-Della Valle Instability Index (CDVI) were employed to assess fluctuations and instability in the cultivation area, production, and yield of these crops. The findings highlighted that cotton exhibited a high degree of instability in production and yield, while rapeseed-mustard (including canola) consistently displayed a high degree of production volatility, underscoring the critical need for a sustainable and steady supply of these commodities. Sesame output revealed frequent instability, demanding prompt and effective mitigation actions. Groundnut production consistently demonstrated mild inconsistency, emphasizing the need for vigilant monitoring to ensure supply stability. Sunflower cultivation faced substantial insecurity, necessitating comprehensive stabilization techniques. Soybean production continually grappled with significant insecurity across all factors, emphasizing the importance of robust risk management. Safflower production consistently posed challenges due to extreme instability, requiring ongoing solutions. Linseed regularly manifested moderate instability, indicating room for improvement with better management. Castor seed production showed considerable volatility in cultivation area and production but low yield instability, underscoring the significance of targeted stability solutions. Addressing insecurity in Pakistan's oilseed crop sectors is crucial for food security, requiring proactive measures like improved forecasting, resource allocation, and informed policy-making for long-term stability.

Evaluation of Integrated Pest Management Module against Pests of Ground Nut and Productivity, Profitability Analysis under Open Field Conditions

Background: Groundnut is an annual oilseed crop that is cultivated in many tropical and sub-tropical countries for its seed purpose. The productivity of groundnut has drastically reduced since 2015 due to an array of insect pests especially sucking pests have emerged as a prominent factor contributing to decreased yields in groundnut by direct damage as well as vectors of virus diseases. Methods: The integrated package of practices including seed treatment with fungicide (mancozeb @ 3 g/kg seed) followed by insecticide (imidacloprid @ 2 mL/kg seed) and new generation insecticides (imidacloprid, chlorpyriphos and flubendiamide) were evaluated against sucking pests (aphid, leaf hopper and thrips) and leaf feeders (Spodoptera litura) under open field conditions in scarce rainfall zone of Andhra Pradesh, India during 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23. The parameters regarding incidence of pests, population reduction after treatment imposition, safety to natural enemies, phytotoxicity effects, extension gap, technology gap and technology index, were worked out in farmer’s field and demonstration field. Result: In this present study imidacloprid 17.8 SL was performed well in controlling aphids, leaf hoppers and thrips in all the three seasons and flubendiamide 39.35 SC was concluded as best treatment against Spodoptera litura in all seasons. During all the study years, the benefic cost ratio of demo practice indicates (1.26, 1.01 and 1.04) when compared to farmers practice (0.71, 0.69 and 0.76), respectively for 2020, 2021 and 2022. Similarly, the average extension gap, technology gap and yield gap were worked out and ranged from (3.4, 3.1 and 5.3), (1.82, 4.23 and 1.82), (12.72, 11.36 and 19.46) for the years 2020, 2021 and 2022, respectively.

Evaluation of Tebuconazole 6% FS against Collar Rot, Stem Rot and Root Rot Disease Complex in Groundnut

Groundnut regarded as “king of oil seed crops” is an economic important food legume and edible oilseed crop in India, which severely suffers from soil borne diseases of groundnut, collar rot (Aspergillus niger), stem rot (Sclerotium rolfsii) and root rot (Rhizoctonia solani) causing major havoc causes significant economic losses. The field experiments were conducted to find out the efficacy of Tebuconazole 6% FS as a seed treatment fungicide against collar rot, stem rot and root rot diseases complex in ground nut during Rabi 2014-15 and Rabi 2015-16. The treatment Tebuconazole 6% FS @ 4.0 ml/10 kg and Tebuconazole 6% FS @ 5.0 ml/10 kg of seeds were found be the best treatments for seed germination, root and shoot length in during both the seasons.During first season, Tebuconazole 6% FS @ 5.0 ml/10 kg of seeds and Tebuconazole 6% FS @ 4.0 ml/10 kg of seeds were recorded 1.77 and 2.14 per cent collar rot incidence, 3.07 and 4.23 per cent stem rot disease incidence and 4.93 and 5.05 per cent root rot disease incidence, respectively. Similarly during second season, Tebuconazole 6% FS @ 5.0 ml/10 kg of seeds and Tebuconazole 6% FS @ 4.0 ml/10 kg of seeds were recorded 1.89 and 2.06 per cent collar rot incidence, 4.05 and 5.13 per cent stem rot incidence and 5.74 and 5.94 per cent root rot incidence, respectively. The highest pod yield was obtained from seed treatment with Tebuconazole 6% FS @ 5.0 ml/10 kg of seeds i.e. 20.22 q/ha and 20.10 q/ha during first and second season, respectively and Tebuconazole 6% FS @ 4.0 ml/10 kg of seeds recorded 20.12 q/ha and 20.00 q/ha of pod yield during first and second season, respectively.

High-Resolution Lipidomics Reveals Influence of Biomass and Pretreatment Process on the Composition of Extracted Algae Oils As Feedstock for Sustainable Aviation Fuels.

The increasing demand for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) creates a need for innovative biomass and lipid sources with compositions that are compatible with refineries. Algae-derived oils present an opportunity to supply a process-compatible lipid feedstock at yields higher than those of conventional oilseed crops. With few documented reports on chemical composition, the process readiness remains elusive. We present data on extraction efficiency, yield, and purity of lipids from algae with and without the application of a low-concentration sulfuric acid pretreatment of the biomass. The pretreatment process increased the oil yield and positively impacted the quality of the extracted oils. Results from fatty acid and lipidomics analysis revealed that the low-lipid biomass sources extracted 70-80% of the available lipids, and the non-fatty acid co-extractants exceeded 40% of the extracted oils. For a high-lipid algae sample, derived from a genetically engineered strain, we show >90% extraction yield with >85% FAME purity. This work provides insights into the composition of algae-derived oils and quality metrics that are essential to determining the viability of lipid hydroprocessing to SAF.

Biochemical Changes: Their Potential Role against Fungal Disease Resistance Development in Mustard

Rape-seed mustard is an imperative edible oilseed crop which is adversely affected by different biotic stresses causing import of edible oils from abroad. The experiment was carried out for screening mustard genotypes based on disease indexing and putative role of diverse biochemical parameters in development of resistant against three major fungal diseases. A modified 0-9 scale was used for rating of disease indicators to calculate disease incident (DI). In disease indexing, mustard genotypes L-4, GSC-7 and PC-6 were considered as immune against Alternaria brassicae, Maya, L-4, China, GSL-1, GSC-7, PC-5, PC-6 and RP-9 were classified as immune against Albugo candida while L-4 and PC-5 were found immune against Erysiphe cruciferarum. The study of biochemical constituents demonstrated that these immune genotypes accumulated higher osmolytes content including free proline content and total phenol under diseased condition showing their tolerance ability against these pathogens. The tolerant genotypes also had lesser lipid peroxidation rate as indicated by malondialdehyde content analysis to induce lesser effect on total chlorophyll, amino acids, proteins and soluble sugars including reducing and non-reducing sugars. These identified genotypes have wider scope for further phyto-pathological studies and utilization in development of fungal resistance breeding.

Variability in seed quality traits in castor germplasm

Castor is an industrial oilseed crop with great potential for biorefineries. However, little is known about the variability in the bioactive compounds in castor germplasm. This study evaluated seed weight, oil content, fatty acid profile, tocopherols, and phytosterols in 160 accessions of the USDA-ARS castor germplasm collection. The accessions were grown in Cordoba, Spain, under three different environmental conditions. Environmental and genotype-by-environment interaction effects were predominant for most traits, resulting in moderate to low broad-sense heritabilities, which ranged from 0.12 for total tocopherol content to 0.88 for hundred-seed weight. The genetic variability in the seed quality traits identified in the collection was lower than that reported previously for the germplasm of wild and semi-wild accessions from Spain, which is attributed to the lower genetic diversity in cultivated than in wild forms. The variation in seed quality traits in castor germplasm can be exploited to improve the concentration of bioactive compounds in castor cultivars.

Genetic study for seed germination and shattering in Euphorbia lagascae in response to different seed treatments

Euphorbia lagascae Spreng is a promising emerging oilseed crop, with its seed oil accounting for approximately 50% of the seed weight. Euphorbia oil contains a significant amount of vernolic acid, comprising two-thirds of its composition, which boasts various industrial applications, including acting as a stabilizer-plasticizer and natural dye. However, this species was known to have a high degree of seed-shattering and a low germination rate, which act as two important barriers to large-scale production and exploitation. Therefore, the objective of this study is to determine the genetic control of seed germination and seed-shattering traits in order to develop a reliable pipeline that would be applicable for industries and breeders to select superior E. lagascae lines and design a robust breeding scheme in a short time at reduced labor costs. For this objective, five different wild-type genotypes of E. lagascae that demonstrated high germination potential were crossed with an ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) mutant genotype that produces non-shattering capsules. The F2 populations from two successful crosses (A and B) were separated into three different treated groups for seed germination evaluation and to study the segregation of 200 individuals per F2 population. The three treatments were: light, gibberellic acid (GA3), and control treatment. Consequently, plants treated with approximately 250 μmol/m2/s of light showed significant improvement in germination up to 75% in cross A and 82.4 % in cross B compared with the control plants and the group treated with 0.05% GA3. According to the chi-square test results, the inheritance pattern of seed germination in response to light treatment follows a 3:1 segregation ratio between germinated and non-germinated seeds, indicating a dominant gene action in the F2 generation. The same conclusion was followed for the shattering trait in the group treated with light, which was also simply inherited as a 3:1 ratio for shattering vs. non-shattering capsules. Our results emphasize the importance and significance of light treatment in producing uniform populations through acceptable germination and shattering resistance of the mutant genotypes of E. lagascae. This is the first report of light treatment that significantly improved seed germination of E. lagascae, which may enhance efforts in the development of this new industrial crop as a feedstock for vernolic acid production.

Modeling and Optimization of Groundnut Production in Vijayapura District of Karnataka, India

Groundnut is a significant oilseed crop in India, with Karnataka being one of the largest producers. The agricultural economy of Vijayapura district relies heavily on crop production, including groundnut. Understanding the production patterns and forecasting future yields is crucial for agricultural planning and economic sustainability. The study aimed to investigate the production patterns and forecast the groundnut yield in Vijayapura district, Karnataka. The research problem focused on understanding the trends in groundnut area, production, and productivity over time and developing a forecasting model for future yields. Secondary data from 1966-67 to 2020-21 was collected from various sources. Statistical models including linear, quadratic, cubic, exponential, log-logistic and GAM were used to analyze the trends. The ARIMA method was employed for forecasting. The models' adequacy was assessed using MAPE, R2, AIC, and BIC criteria. The log-logistic model was found to be the best fit for groundnut area trends, while the cubic model and GAM were best for productivity and production, respectively. Forecasting using ARIMA initially indicated a slight increase in groundnut yield, but the GAM model predicted a decrease in future production. The findings provide insights for policymakers, agricultural extension services and farmers to make informed decisions regarding crop planning, resource allocation and economic sustainability. Understanding the production patterns and forecasting future yields is crucial for agricultural planning and economic sustainability in Vijayapura district.

Advancements in Enhancing Oil Quality in Rapeseed and Mustard: A Comprehensive Review

Rapeseed and mustard are important oilseed crops cultivated worldwide for their high oil content and versatile applications in food, feed, and industrial sectors. The quality of oil derived from these crops is influenced by various genetic, environmental, and agronomic factors. Breeding efforts aimed at improving oil quality traits in rapeseed and mustard have garnered significant attention in recent years due to their impact on market value, nutritional attributes, and industrial utility. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of breeding strategies and methodologies employed to enhance oil quality traits in rapeseed and mustard. We explore the genetic basis of oil quality traits, including fatty acid composition, erucic acid content, glucosinolate content, and tocopherol content, and discuss the importance of these traits for different end-uses. Furthermore, we highlight the role of molecular markers, genomics-assisted breeding, and biotechnological approaches in accelerating the breeding process and achieving targeted improvements in oil quality. The review also addresses the challenges and constraints associated with breeding for oil quality in rapeseed and mustard, including genotype-environment interactions, trait stability, and regulatory considerations. Additionally, we discuss emerging trends and future prospects in oil quality breeding, such as genome editing, metabolic engineering, and precision breeding, which offer novel avenues for achieving desired oil quality profiles while addressing sustainability and consumer preferences. Overall, this review underscores the significance of breeding for oil quality in rapeseed and mustard and provides insights into the latest advancements, challenges, and opportunities in this field. By integrating multidisciplinary approaches and harnessing the power of modern breeding tools and technologies, rapeseed and mustard breeders can continue to drive innovation and deliver oilseed crops with enhanced nutritional value, functional properties, and market competitiveness.