Argania spinosa as potential oilseed resource for the future: genotype impact in oil content and fatty acids composition

Argania spinosa (L.) is one of the most economically and culturally important indigenous species in Morocco. Its seeds contain a vegetable oil, internationally known as argan oil, which is widely used in edible, cosmetic and pharmaceutical sectors. The aim of this study was to assess the levels of variation in oil content and fatty acid composition of eighteen trees to identify genotypes with desirable traits in terms of oil quantity, quality and industrial utilization. Oil yield of eighteen genotypes was determined after mechanical pressing, and fatty acid methyl ester analysis was carried out using gas liquid chromatography. Obtained results show that oil yields ranged between 37.2 to 43.8% and major fatty acids in the extracted oil were oleic (47.15%), followed by linoleic (31.57%), palmitic (14.24%) and stearic (5.8%) acid. Fatty acids composition was significantly different among genotypes tested. Significant correlations, both positive and negative were located between some fatty acids. The high variability observed between genotypes represents a very promising base to develop a new argan variety with high oil quality.