Variability in oil content and fatty acid composition in wild northern currants

Seed oils of wild berries of alpine currant (AC) and northern redcurrant (NRC) were investigated. Oil contents of AC and NRC varied between 4.9 % and 9.7% and between 12.8% and 38.5%, respectively. The proportions of α-linolenic, γ-linolenic and stearidonic acids were higher in NRC (means of 21.7, 12.3 and 5.4%, respectively) than in AC (16.8, 8.6 and 3.0%). The growth areas of NRC can be divided into two distinct groups according to the proportions of different polyunsaturated fatty acids. Oil content of NRC correlated negatively to the proportion of linoleic acid and positively to that of stearidonic acid. There were significant correlations between all polyunsaturated fatty acids in NRC but correlations were less obvious in AC. Interestingly, the correlation between linoleic and γ-linolenic acids was positive in NRC but negative in AC. α-Linolenic and stearidonic acids showed positive correlations in both species. In NRC the synthesis of triunsaturated fatty acids is directed either towards α-linolenic or γ-linolenic acids. Results showed great potential in NRC and AC for plant breeding due to the natural variation in the content and composition of the seed oils for functional nutrients. Received: 20 August 1999 / Revised version: 29 October 1999