Genome size data and chromosome numbers are fundamental information to characterize genomes, which are very dynamic in plants in both size and structure. Genome sizes in the Brassicaceae family are comparatively small on average (1C = 0.51 pg). Only a few Brassicaceae species from various tribes of Lineage III reach genome sizes up to 1C = 4.31 pg. Genome up- and downsizing has been shown to be rapid in the Brassicaceae family (Lysak et al., 2009), and the number of polyploids is with about 65% in congruence with the 50-70% portion of polyploids estimated for all extant angiosperms (Wendel, 2000). Tetraploidy is most frequent within the Brassicaceae, and numerous genera are characterized by high-polyploidy (e.g., Draba). Taxa frequently occur both as diploid and polyploid cytotypes.

Genome sizes were obtained from literature; chromosome counts were assembled from Warwick et al. (2006), and additional counts are ongoingly added from the literature since 2006. Ploidal levels were estimated based on literature and in collaboration with Martin Lysak (Brno). For all datasets, literature values were subjected to a critical quality check, and the newest taxonomic concept was applied.