Identification of variability in phenological responses in canola-quality Brassica juncea for utilisation in Australian breeding programs

Abstract

Canola-quality Brassica juncea is a potential alternative crop species in lower rainfall Australian environments due to its superior heat and drought tolerance, disease resistance, and pod-shatter resistance compared with the currently grown B. napus species. Canola-quality types of B. juncea that are adapted to flower and mature before water deficits and high temperatures significantly limit yield potential are currently being developed. In this study, the variability in phenological characteristics in canola-quality B. juncea is assessed, with a view to identifying the potential for including a range of genetic phenological controls on the development of the crop to assist with adaptation...