Effect of a low seed lignin content on seed yield and quality in winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus)

Abstract

Increasing demand for vegetable oil and protein requires breeding efforts to enhance the yield of oilseed rape. This can be achieved by reducing seed cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin content. The objective of the study was to analyse seed yield and important agronomic traits of two distinct bulks of genotypes from two crosses, with low (6%) and high seed lignin content (10%). The two genotype bulks were formed by mixing seeds of 12 doubled haploid lines with either low or high lignin content. The genotypes were selected from two large doubled haploid populations based on lignin content, flowering time and plant height. The bulks were field-tested in replicated yield trials. Seed quality analysis confirmed significant differences in seed lignin content between the two bulks. Seed oil content was moderately higher in the low lignin bulks of both crosses. Seed, oil and protein yield in both crosses were moderately to significantly higher in the low lignin bulks. Further breeding for reduced fibre content will help increase seed oil and protein content.