Editorial Book

Book Title: Advances in Plant Breeding - Volume 1

PAID ACCESS | Published on : 25-Jun-2026 | Pages: 32-39 | Doi : 10.37446/volbook022026/32-39

Rapeseed & Mustard (Brassicas sp.) - Origin, Floral Biology, Breeding Objectives, Molecular Approach in Crop Improvement and Quality Breeding

• Oviya Parimelazhagan
• M.Sc. (Agri.), SRM College of Agricultural Sciences, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Vendhar Nagar, Baburayanpettai, Elapakkam (Post), Chengalpattu (Dt.), Tamil Nadu, India.


• Selvakumar Gurunathan
• Associate Professor (Genetics and Plant Breeding), SRM College of Agricultural Sciences, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Vendhar Nagar, Baburayanpettai, Elapakkam (Post), Chengalpattu (Dt.), Tamil Nadu, India.

Abstract

Rapeseed and mustard (Brassica spp.) are major oilseed crops of the family Brassicaceae, valued for their high oil (30–45%) and protein-rich meal. Originating mainly from Mediterranean and Asiatic regions, these crops exhibit typical cruciferous floral biology with both self- and cross-pollination. Breeding objectives focus on improving yield, oil content, stress resistance, and quality traits such as low erucic acid and glucosinolates. Modern molecular approaches, including marker-assisted selection and genetic engineering, have enhanced crop improvement. Quality breeding has led to the development of “double low” varieties, strengthening their role in the edible oil economy, especially in India.

Keywords

Seed spices,Brassica juncea, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Foeniculum vulgare, Coriandrum sativum, Cuminum cyminum, Breeding

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