The Impact of Heat Stress on Canola (Brassica napus L.) Yield, Oil, and Fatty Acid Profile

Canola (Brassica napus L.) is an oilseed crop that is currently being impacted by climate change. Heat stress risks production by impacting yield, oil, protein, and fatty acid profile. The purpose of this literature review was to assess the impact of heat stress on canola while briefly evaluating other abiotic stresses, and to address the following research questions: (1) What is the impact of heat stress on canola yield?, (2) What is the impact of heat stress on canola oil and protein content?, and (3) What is the impact of heat stress on the fatty acid profile of canola? Forty papers were selected in relation to B. napus heat stress and impact on yield, oil content, or fatty acid profile, from 1978 to 2025. Key findings revealed that heat stress negatively impacted yield and oil, while significant variation was observed within the fatty acid profile. Genotype, heat stress condition, and growth stage significantly impacted results. Certain genotypes were identified as having potential heat-tolerant traits, providing a basis for future breeding programs. Future field studies with controlled irrigation may better explain variations between controlled environment and field studies when water stress is not a concern. A better understanding of the impact of combined stresses, particularly heat and drought, is also required for breeding tolerant lines in regions with minimal irrigation.