Despite the recent advances made in the improvement of crucifer crops using conventional
breeding techniques, the yield levels and the oil and meal quality that
were expected could not be achieved. The understanding of genetic material (DNA/
RNA) and its manipulation by scientists have provided the opportunity to improve
crucifers by increasing their diversity beyond conventional genetic limitations. The
application of biotechnological techniques will have two major benefi ts: fi rst, it
allows to choose from a number of techniques/methods for appropriate selection of
favorable variants, and second, it gives an opportunity to utilize alien variation
available in the crucifers to develop high-yielding varieties with good nutritional
quality and resistance to insects, pests, and diseases.