GENETIC IMPROVEMENT OF CAMELINA SATIVA: DEVELOPMENT OF NEW VARIETIES AND EXPLORATION OF ITS POTENTIAL AS AN INTERMEDIATE CROP

In recent years, Camelina sativa has gained considerable attention as a sustainable crop, known for its resilience under harsh conditions and low input requirements. It is being explored for its potential as a biofuel source and for the production of omega-3 rich oil. Furthermore, its role in improving soil health through crop rotation and its environmental benefits, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, have further increased its attractiveness. This doctoral thesis presents an overview of research on the allelopathic and agronomic benefits of Camelina, in particular its potential in integrated management. The thesis examines progress in camelina breeding through traditional methods, biotechnological approaches, evaluating its potential to improve the crop (improvements in yield, oil content and reduction of anti-nutritional compounds such as glucosinolates). He underlines the importance of genetic diversity and proposes two selection strategies: one that involves crossing spring varieties and the other that crosses spring and winter varieties. Breeding programs have shown that winter cultivation in Northern Italy led to significantly higher yields than spring cultivation. Furthermore, a synthetic population of Camelina sativa was identified as adaptable with a low glucosinolate content, making it resilient to different environments. Molecular analysis made it possible to identify genetic differences between winter and spring varieties. Finally, the promising new variety (C1244) shows early maturity, high seed weight and oil content, offering potential for use in several sectors.