Camelina sativa Seed Oil Yield and Glucosinolate Profile to Varying Selenium Biofortification and Soil Moisture Depletion

Abstract

Enhancing oilseed crop productivity and nutritional quality under variable soil moisture conditions is critical for sustainable agricultural systems. This study evaluates the response of Camelina sativa to varying levels of selenium biofortification and soil moisture depletion, with particular emphasis on seed oil yield and glucosinolate composition. A field experiment was conducted using graded selenium applications combined with controlled irrigation regimes to simulate different moisture depletion levels. The results indicated that moderate selenium supplementation significantly improved seed oil yield by enhancing physiological efficiency and antioxidant activity, particularly under mild to moderate water stress conditions. However, excessive selenium levels adversely affected plant growth and yield attributes. Soil moisture depletion exerted a strong influence on crop performance, with severe water stress reducing oil accumulation and altering glucosinolate profiles. Notably, selenium application moderated stress effects by stabilizing metabolic processes and maintaining better nutrient assimilation. Variations in glucosinolate content suggested a complex interaction between micronutrient availability and moisture stress, influencing both the nutritional and anti-nutritional properties of the crop. While analytical approaches were employed to quantify biochemical changes, the primary focus remained on agronomic performance, crop quality, and soil–plant interactions. The findings highlight the potential of integrating selenium biofortification with optimized irrigation management to enhance yield stability and seed quality in Camelina sativa. This study contributes to sustainable oilseed production by providing insights into nutrient–water interactions that support improved resource-use efficiency and crop resilience under changing environmental conditions.