Fatty Acid Accumulation in Maturing Flaxseeds as Influenced by Environment

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Effects of temperature and light on boll and shoot maturity and on accumulation of fatty acid in developing flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum) were determined. Palmitic and linoieic acids decreased but linolenic increased in percent during seed formation. Oleic acid increased in percent in 1 variety and decreased in another. Increased temperatures hastened these changes and reduced the iodine value of the oil. All 5 major fatty acids increased in weight (mg/per 1000 seeds) during seed formation. Increased temperatures initially accelerated accumulation of all fatty acids, but the period of net fatty acid synthesis was eventually shortened in comparison with cooler temperatures. At 15[degree] and 20[degree], linolenic acid accumulation closely paralleled rate of boll maturation as measured by boll moisture content; at 30[degree] linolenic accumulation ceased before maturation could be detected. A 20 hr. photoperiod accelerated plant maturity resulting in decreased seed weight in comparison with a 16 hr. photoperlod. Eight hr. photoperiod favored late blossoming and depressed seed weight, oil content, and fatty acid content. Weights of linoleic and linolenic adds per 1000 seeds were high in both the 16 and 20 hr. photoperlods. Linolenic acid was reduced in percent and weight per 1000 seeds at light intensities of 1200 ft-c as compared with 2700 ft-c. The response of developing flaxseeds to environmental stresses may involve effects on fatty acid biosynthesis as well as interrelated effects on other plant processes such as maturity and flowering.

This publication has 11 references indexed in Scilit: