Populational segregation of Echium plantagineum L. based on seed oil fatty acid ratios as chemotaxonomical marker sets.

This study examines fatty acid variations within Echium plantagineum L. populations in northwestern Türkiye. Significant differences in fatty acid ratios between locations suggest their potential for population segregation using chemometric data as a conceptual approach. Seed oil content ranged from 17 % to 29 %, with PUFAs being the most abundant group (60–75 %). SFA and MUFA concentrations ranged from 10 % to 15 % and 11–19 %, respectively. Total n3 and n6 fatty acids were 35–50.5 % and 22–32 % individually. USFA levels varied from 76 % to 87 %. GLA (9.26 %) and SDA (10.09 %) were notable. While overall fatty acid profiles showed no location-based differences, significant variations were observed in individual major fatty acids, unusual fatty acids, and certain ratios (e.g., SDA/GLA, USFA/SFA, PUFA/MUFA, n3/n6). These variations may aid in taxonomical delineation and population discrimination. Given the species' broad distribution and rich gene pool, high-yielding genotypes with desirable fatty acid profiles could be identified for agricultural purposes and biotechnological crop improvement. [Display omitted] • Echium plantagineum L. is an industrial crop plant. • The largest intraspecific study on E. plantagineum in Turkey. • SDA and GLA are found in high amounts in E. plantagineum. • Nutraceutical potential as a source of terrestrial omega-3 and omega-6. • Fatty acid ratios are reliable tool for chemotaxonomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]