Release of transgenic oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) with altered fatty acids

Seven lines (generation T-3 and T-4) Of transgenic oilseed rape c.v. 'Drakkar' ('D') carrying a thioesterase gene of Cuphea lanceolata were field released in 1996. Myristic acid content (C14:0%) of the offspring varied from 0.1% to 12.0%, the best single plant showing 17.7%. Mean parent-offspring correlation (T-3/T-4) was r=+/-0.86 with a maximum of 0.96. First results concerning inheritance of C14:0 % are reported. There were no pronounced differences to 'D' in development and vigour. In a yield trial with two transgenic lines and 'D' one line was significantly higher yielding (29.1 dt/ha) as compared to the second line (27.2 dt/ha) and 'D' (27.0 dt/ha). In a pilot experiment oil processing characteristics were not different to 'D', but the oxidation stability of the transgenics was markedly higher.