Agronomic Traits in Oilseed Rape (Brassica napus) Can Predict Foraging Resources for Insect Pollinators

Mass-flowering crops, such as oilseed rape (OSR; Brassica napus), provide pulses of nectar and pollen, helping to support pollinators their pollination services in agricultural landscapes. Despite value declining pollinators, varietal in-field OSR testing focusses on agronomic traits, with floral resources being largely overlooked. has a high turnover, consequently, resource data collected for specific variety quickly become redundant. Here, we explore the potential predict availability using trait routinely trials. To build predictive models, investigated relationships between traits pollen 19 varieties. Nectar quality was positively influenced by early vigour, well winter hardiness conventional varieties stem stiffness hybrid Pollen quantity driven different maturation having negative impact resistance lodging positive Our study highlights data, enabling rapid assessment these key future without costly sampling. Agronomic relating increased were also agronomically favourable, indicating benefits both growers. The inclusion modelled recommended lists would enable growers make informed decisions about selection based local pollinator populations.