Breeding potential of interline rapeseed hybrids: characterization of oil content and fatty acid profile

The fatty acid composition and oil content of seeds of interline hybrids and their parent lines of spring rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) were studied. We analyzed six hybrid combinations developed from the M8ms CMS line and the fertility restorer lines (u2, u3, u4, u17, u32, and u35), as well as two standards of foreign breeding (F1 hybrids Jazz and Akhat). The oil content of the hybrid seeds ranged from 27.6% to 38.9%, similar to the threeyear average values obtained in the Moscow region (33.4%). All hybrids had a low erucic acid content (0.02–0.05%), complying with State Standard 1058376. The fatty acid composition was determined by gas chromatography with a flame ionization detector. Unsaturated fatty acids made up the majority (89.56–91.44%), primarily oleic acid (58.12–62.51%), linoleic acid (18.44–23.16%), and αlinolenic acid (6.10–8.67%). Saturated fatty acids, such as palmitic acid (4.46%–5.35%) and stearic acid (1.7%–3.08%), amounted to 8.56%–10.02%. The M8ms × u17 hybrid was notable for its balanced fatty acid profile, making it promising for further breeding. The results highlight the high nutritional potential and suitability for dietary nutrition and export of the studied hybrids, as well as the need for further research to increase the content of unsaturated fatty acids.