Which of the following is NOT in the mustard group?
Show Hint
To easily remember the groups:
- Mustards have the word "mustard" in their common names (Indian mustard, Black mustard, Ethiopian mustard).
- Brassica napus is canola/rapeseed, which belongs to the rapeseed group.
Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The family Brassicaceae contains several economically important oilseed and vegetable crops.
These crops are classified into distinct groups, such as the rapeseed group and the mustard group, based on their genomic composition (chromosomal number) and physiological features. Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the species in the Brassicaceae family:
- Brassica juncea (Indian Mustard Rai): An amphidiploid species (\(2n = 36\)) derived from hybridization between B. nigra and B. campestris. It is the most widely cultivated mustard crop in India.
- Brassica nigra (Black Mustard): A diploid species (\(2n = 16\)) cultivated for its highly pungent seeds used in spices and condiments.
- Brassica carinata (Ethiopian Mustard): An amphidiploid species (\(2n = 34\)) derived from B. nigra and B. oleracea. It is grown as a leaf vegetable and oilseed crop.
- Brassica napus (Rape Colza Canola): An amphidiploid species (\(2n = 38\)) derived from B. oleracea and B. campestris.
Physiologically and agronomically, Brassica napus is classified as a rapeseed rather than a mustard.
Its seeds contain a lower percentage of allylisothiocyanate (the compound responsible for the sharp, pungent mustard flavor), making it the primary source of canola oil. Step 2: Final Answer:
Brassica napus is classified as a rapeseed, making it distinct from the true mustard group.
