Absorption,translocation and metabolism of aminocyclopyrachlor in young plants of Ipomoea purpurea and Ipomoea triloba

Members of the Convolvulaceae family are known to be sensitive to aminocyclopyrachlor, although little is known about the absorption, translocation and metabolism of the herbicide in these species of weed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the absorption, translocation and metabolism of ¹⁴C‐aminocyclopyrachlor in young plants of Ipomoea purpurea and Ipomoea triloba. Assessments were performed at 3, 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h after treatment (HAT) for the study of absorption and translocation. Metabolism was assessed at three time points (3, 24 and 72 HAT). In terms of absorption, was observed a difference between species at the 3 and 48 HAT time points, where I. purpurea had a higher absorption of ¹⁴C‐aminocyclopyrachlor. No differences were observed between species at any other time points. Of the total absorbed herbicide, 90.9% for I. purpurea and 91.8% for I. triloba were detected on the treated leaf. I. purpurea presented higher translocation to the leaf above the treated leaf, while I. triloba showed higher translocation to the lower leaves and roots. No increase in absorption of ¹⁴C‐aminocyclopyrachlor was observed above 24 HAT for I. purpurea and above 6 HAT for I. triloba, and translocation was low (<1%) for both species in all plant parts. This suggests that post‐emergence application of aminocyclopyrachlor cannot be effective for the control of I. purpurea and I. triloba and alternative approaches are required. Nevertheless, no ¹⁴C‐aminocyclopyrachlor metabolites were observed in the studied plants, which indicated sensitivity in I. purpurea and I. triloba to the herbicide.     

Foliar absorption and translocation of nicosulfuron and rimsulfuron in five annual weed species

Ambrosia artemisüfolia L. (common ragweed) and Digitaria ischaemum Schreb. (smooth crabgrass) are not controlled by nicosulfuron and rimsulfuron at the highest recommended application rates, whereas Panicum miliaceum L. (wild proso millet), Amaranthus retroflexus L. (redroot pigweed) and Avena fatua L. (wild oat) are susceptible. The foliar absorption and translocation of ¹⁴C-nicosulfuron and ¹⁴C-rimsulf uron were studied in these weed species up to 48 h after treatment (HAT). Differences in herbicide uptake and translocation were not correlated with the species susceptibility. By 48 HAT, more than 50% of both herbicides remained on the treated leaf surface. Foliar absorption of rimsulfuron was greater than that of nicosulfuron in A. retroflexus, P. miliaceum and A. artemisüfolia. Most of the absorbed herbicide remained in the treated leaf of each weed species. Export of ¹⁴C–nicosulfuron ranged from 28 to 54% of that absorbed, in contrast to 15 to 39% for ¹⁴C–rimsulfuron. The absorption and translocation rates of both herbicides were highest within the initial 6 HAT, and decreased thereafter. Both herbicides showed approximately the same distribution pattern within each weed species.     

Aminocyclopyrachlor sorption–desorption and leaching in soil amended with organic materials from sugar cane cultivation

The correct application of a new herbicide depends on knowledge concerning its behaviour within the cultivation system. The objective of this study was to evaluate the sorption–desorption process of aminocyclopyrachlor in soils with the addition of three aged organic materials from sugar cane and their transport via leaching. Sugar cane straw (12 t/ha), filter cake (90 t/ha) and vinasse (200 m³/ha) were added to a clayey soil 15, 30 and 60 days before herbicide application. Sorption and desorption were evaluated by the batch equilibrium method. For leaching assessments, the materials were applied to the soil surface. Sorption was relatively low in all treatments (K_d = 0.17–0.41 L/kg), although significantly higher in soil without organic material addition. A negative correlation between herbicide sorption and increased soil base saturation was observed, indicating competition for sorption sites. With the addition of vinasse, 71% of the herbicide reached the leachate, while <50% reached the leachate in the other treatments. Aminocyclopyrachlor availability was not reduced with organic material addition to the soil, which may be favourable for weed control. However, the presence of vinasse leads to the risk of leaching to deeper soil layers than the seed bank.     

The uptake,translocation and metabolism of epronaz in selected species

The absorption, translocation and metabolism of the selective pre- or early post- emergence herbicide epronaz (N-ethyl-N-propyl-3-propylsulphonyl-1,2,4-triazole-1-carboxamide) were investigated using selected crop and weed species. The pattern of tolerance to epronaz of both germinating seeds and 10-day-old plants grown in nutrient solution, was found to be soybean (Glycine max L.) > maize (Zea mays L.) > cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) > rice (Oryza sativa L.) > barnyard grass [Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) Beauv.]. In all species, absorption and translocation of ¹⁴C from a nutrient solution containing [¹⁴C]epronaz (0.02 μCi ml^?1) increased with time. Autoradiographic and liquid scintillation analysis indicated the presence of radioactivity in the apical regions of all species after 4 h. Interspecies variation in uptake and distribution did not appear to be a major factor explaining selectivity, although the resistance of cotton may be partly due to compartmentalisation of ¹⁴C in the lysigenous glands in stem and leaves. Analysis of extracts from plants treated with [¹⁴C]epronaz indicated the presence of epronaz, its major degradation product [3-propylsulphonyl-l,2,4-triazole (BTS 28 768)] and certain unknown radio-labelled compounds. The major metabolite (Unknown I) was believed to be a conjugate of certain plant components with either epronaz or BTS 28 768. The rate of formation of Unknown I corresponded to the relative resistance and susceptibility to epronaz of soybean, rice and barnyardgrass. The level of the herbicide remained much higher in cotton than in the other species, possibly reflecting compartmentalisation and inactivation of epronaz in the lysigenous glands. For maize, high levels of uptake, exudation and degradation in the nutrient solution were recorded.     

Influence of water stress on absorption, translocation and phytotoxicity of fenoxaprop-ethyl and imazamethabenz-methyl in Avena fatua

The influence of water stress on the absorption and translocation of ¹⁴C-labelled fenoxapropethyl and imazamthabenz-methyl in Avena fatua L. (wild oat) was studied. The phytoioxicity to A. fatua of both herbicides with a droplet application was also examined under water stress conditions. The absorption of both fenoxaproethyl and imazamethabenz-methyl was reduced by waler stress when the plants were harvested within 24 h after herbicide application. Up to 48 h after the application, the translocation out of the treated lamina of both herbicides, based on percentage of applied ¹⁴C. was reduced under water stress conditions. When havested 96 h after herbicide application, however, water stress no longer significantly affeaed the absorption and translocation of either herbicide. When the herbicides were applied as individual droplets, water stress reduced the phytotoxicity of fenoxaprop-ethyl but not that of imazamethabenz-methyl. It is concluded that the changes in herbieide absorption and translocation may not be the major physiological processes associated with differential whole-plant response oi A faiua to fenoxaprop-ethyl and imazamefhabenz-methyl under water stress.     

Comparative effects of different types of tank‐mixed adjuvants on the efficacy,absorption and translocation of cyhalofop‐butyl in barnyardgrass (Echinochloa crus‐galli [L.] Beauv.)

The efficacy of cyhalofop‐butyl with tank‐mixed adjuvants on barnyardgrass (Echinochloa crus‐galli [L.] Beauv.), as well as the physico‐chemical properties, absorption and translocation, was evaluated and compared. The efficacy experiment showed that the treatments with tank‐mixed adjuvants were approximately twofold more effective than with cyhalofop‐butyl alone at 2% (v/v) (silwet 625 at 0.05%). The surface tension decreased and the droplets could spread automatically on the leaves after adding the adjuvants. The spreading speed increased significantly with the adjuvants. The epidermal cells and wax layer were damaged by the adjuvants. The absorption of cyhalofop‐butyl was increased significantly after adding the tank‐mixed adjuvants. GY‐T12 and silwet 625 were conducive to upward translocation and all six tank‐mixed adjuvants promoted the downward translocation of the herbicide. The results demonstrate that adjuvants can have a considerable influence on the efficiency of cyhalofop‐butyl on barnyardgrass.     

Reduced translocation is involved in resistance to glyphosate and paraquat in Conyza bonariensis and Conyza canadensis from California

Resistance to glyphosate and paraquat has evolved in some populations of Conyza spp. from California, USA. This study evaluated whether herbicide absorption and translocation were involved in the mechanism of resistance to both herbicides. Three lines of each species were used: glyphosate‐paraquat‐susceptible (GPS), glyphosate‐resistant (GR) and glyphosate‐paraquat‐resistant (GPR). Radiolabelled herbicide was applied to a fully expanded leaf, and absorption and movement out of the treated leaf were monitored for up to 24 h for paraquat and 72 h for glyphosate. Plants treated with paraquat were incubated in darkness for the first 16 h and then subjected to light conditions. More glyphosate was absorbed in C. bonariensis (52.9–58.3%) compared with C. canadensis (28.5–37.6%), but no differences in absorption were observed among lines within a species. However, in both species, the GR and GPR lines translocated less glyphosate out of the treated leaf when compared with their respective GPS lines. Paraquat absorption was similar among lines and across species (71.3–77.6%). Only a fraction of paraquat was translocated in the GPR lines (3% or less) when compared with their respective GPS or GR lines (20% or more) in both species. Taken together, these results indicate that reduced translocation is involved in the mechanism of resistance to glyphosate and paraquat in C. bonariensis and C. canadensis.     

Waterhemp (Amaranthus tuberculatus) control under drought stress with 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid and glyphosate

Waterhemp (Amaranthus tuberculatus) is a common and troublesome weed in cropping systems throughout the United States. With the potential for future periods of low rainfall or drought, the need for improved weed control under drought stress is necessary. Drought stress typically reduces herbicide efficacy by reducing the foliar uptake of herbicides and their translocation. The objectives of this research were to determine the efficacy of 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4‐D) and glyphosate, applied alone or when tank‐mixed, on waterhemp under varying levels of drought stress, the effect of the timing of drought stress in relation to herbicide application and the absorption and translocation of each herbicide in drought‐stressed waterhemp. At reduced herbicide rates, 2,4‐D had a greater level of control of waterhemp under drought stress, compared to glyphosate. The level of herbicide efficacy was lower when the amount of water that was applied to the plants was reduced. The level of waterhemp control was greatest when drought stress occurred before the herbicide application and when the plants were watered to saturation after the application, compared to when drought stress occurred after the herbicide application or restricted watering levels occurred throughout the entire study. Glyphosate absorption and translocation were reduced in the drought‐stressed plants, but 2,4‐D absorption and translocation were not altered. The absence of a reduction in 2,4‐D translocation in the drought‐stressed weeds has not been previously reported. Applying herbicides prior to a rainfall event could increase the weed control level, even if the weed is stressed. Determining how and why 2,4‐D absorption and translocation levels, compared to those of glyphosate, are unaffected by drought stress in waterhemp can aid in improving the control of drought‐stressed weeds with other postemergence herbicides.     

Protoporphyrinogen oxidase-inhibiting activity of the new,wheat-selective isoindoldione herbicide,cinidon-ethyl

Cinidon-ethyl (BAS 615H) is a new herbicide of isoindoldione structure which selectively controls a wide spectrum of broadleaf weeds in cereals. The uptake, translocation, metabolism and mode of action of cinidon-ethyl were investigated in Galium aparine L, Solanum nigrum L and the tolerant crop species wheat (Triticum aestivum L). When plants at the second-leaf stage were foliarly treated with cinidon-ethyl equivalent to a field rate of 50 g ha⁻¹ for 48 h, the light requirement for phytotoxicity and the symptoms of plant damage in the weed species, including rapid chlorophyll bleaching, desiccation and necrosis of the green tissues, were identical to those of inhibitors of porphyrin synthesis, such as acifluorfen-methyl. The selectivity of cinidon-ethyl between wheat and the weed species has been quantified as approximately 500-fold. Cinidon-ethyl strongly inhibited protoporphyrinogen oxidase (Protox) activity in vitro, with I₅₀ values of approximately 1 nM for the enzyme isolated from the weed species and from wheat. However, subsequent effects of herbicide action, with accumulation of protoporphyrin IX, light-dependent formation of 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid-derived ethylene, ethane evolution and desiccation of the green tissue, were induced by cinidon-ethyl only in the weed species. After foliar application of [¹⁴C] cinidon-ethyl, the herbicide, due to its lipophilic nature, was rapidly adsorbed by the epicuticular wax layer of the leaf surface before it penetrated into the leaf tissue more slowly. No significant differences between foliar and root absorption and translocation of the herbicide by S nigrum, G aparine and wheat were found. After foliar or root application of [¹⁴C]- cinidon-ethyl, translocation of ¹⁴C into untreated plant parts was minimal, as demonstrated by combustion analysis and autoradiography. Metabolism of [¹⁴C]cinidon-ethyl via its E-isomer and acid to further metabolites was more rapid in wheat than in S nigrum and G aparine. After 32 h of foliar treatment with 50 g ha⁻¹ of the [¹⁴C]-herbicide, approximately 47%, 36%, and 12% of the absorbed radioactivity, respectively, were found as unchanged parent or its biologically low active E-isomer and acid in the leaf tissue of G aparine, S nigrum and wheat. In conclusion, cinidon-ethyl is a Protox-inhibiting, peroxidizing herbicide which is effective through contact action in the green tissue of sensitive weed species. It is suggested that a more rapid metabolism, coupled with moderate leaf absorption, contribute to the tolerance of wheat to cinidon-ethyl. © 1999 Society of Chemical Industry     

Comparative uptake and metabolism of methazole in prickly sida and cotton

The comparative uptake and metabolism of ¹⁴C-labeled 2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-4-methyl-1,2,4-oxadiazolidine-3,5-dione (methazole), a herbicide, in prickly sida (Sida spinosa L.) and cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) were investigated as physiological bases for herbicidal selectivity, using thin layer chromatography, autoradiography, and liquid scintillation counting. Prickly sida and cotton readily absorbed and translocated ¹⁴C from nutrient solution containing [¹⁴C]methazole. Only acropetal translocation of ¹⁴C was observed. Methazole was rapidly metabolized to 1-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-3-methylurea (DCPMU) and other metabolites by both species. Although metabolism appeared to be qualitatively the same, quantitative differences between species were evident. Methazole was converted to DCPMU (also phytotoxic) more readily by prickly sida than cotton; however, DCPMU was more readily detoxified to 1-(3,4-dichlorophenyl) urea (DCPU) by cotton than prickly sida. More ¹⁴C per unit weight was present in the prickly sida shoots than in cotton shoots. Also, a larger portion of the methanol-extractable ¹⁴C was herbicidal in the shoots of prickly sida than of cotton. Thus, the differential tolerances of prickly sida and cotton to methazole may be explained, in part, by differential uptake and metabolism of methazole and DCPMU.     

Glyphosate resistance in common ragweed ( A mbrosia artemisiifolia L.) from Mississippi,USA

Glyphosate is one of the most commonly used broad‐spectrum herbicides over the last 40 years. Due to the widespread adoption of glyphosate‐resistant (GR) crop technology, especially corn, cotton and soybean, several weed species have evolved resistance to this herbicide. Research was conducted to confirm and characterize the magnitude and mechanism of glyphosate resistance in two GR common ragweed ( A mbrosia artemisiifolia L.) biotypes from Mississippi, USA. A glyphosate‐susceptible (GS) biotype was included for comparison. The effective glyphosate dose to reduce the growth of the treated plants by 50% for the GR1, GR2 and GS biotypes was 0.58, 0.46 and 0.11 kg ae ha^?1, respectively, indicating that the level of resistance was five and fourfold that of the GS biotype for GR1 and GR2, respectively. Studies using ¹⁴ C‐glyphosate have not indicated any difference in its absorption between the biotypes, but the GR1 and GR2 biotypes translocated more ¹⁴ C‐glyphosate, compared to the GS biotype. This difference in translocation within resistant biotypes is unique. There was no amino acid substitution at codon 106 that was detected by the 5‐enolpyruvylshikimate‐3‐phosphate synthase gene sequence analysis of the resistant and susceptible biotypes. Therefore, the mechanism of resistance to glyphosate in common ragweed biotypes from Mississippi is not related to a target site mutation or reduced absorption and/or translocation of glyphosate.     

Absorption and translocation of glyphosate in Spermacoce verticillata and alternative herbicide control

Glyphosate has been associated with control failures for Spermacoce verticillata in some Brazilian States. The objective of this work was to evaluate and determine the possible causes of this and propose alternative herbicides to use. Glyphosate was applied at three plant stages of development (2–4 leaves, 4–6 leaves and full bloom) where foliar absorption and translocation of glyphosate to various plants parts and time were analysed using the ¹⁴C technique. Data were submitted to nonlinear regressions and analysis of variance, where means were compared by a Tukey test at 5% probability. Plant control by the application of different herbicides (19) in the same three stages of development of weed was evaluated. Twenty‐one days after herbicide application, control was visually evaluated and data analysed and means were compared. Due to absorption and/or translocation problems, S. verticillata plants were not controlled by glyphosate. Plants with 4–6 leaves showed lower absorption and translocation of the herbicide to the leaf/root regions compared with plants at the beginning of their development. Plants at full bloom showed lower translocation of the herbicide to the root. In addition to the application of glyphosate at early stages of development, the application of paraquat, flumioxazin and mixtures of glyphosate with flumioxazin or cloransulam is recommended. Late applications could result in poor control, principally if glyphosate is used. Therefore, early applications are strongly recommended for control of this species.     

Absorption, translocation, and fate of propyzamide in witloof chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) and common amaranth (Amaranthus retroflexus L.)

Witloof chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) is tolerant to propyzamide and common amaranth (Amaranthus retroflexus L.) is sensitive. The absorption, translocation, and metabolism of propyzamide was studied in seedlings of witloof chicory and common amaranth to determine if differences in these processes cause the differential sensitivity. At 24,48, and 72 h after root treatment, there was no difference in the concentration of ¹⁴C (g^?1 plant dry wt) in com-mon amaranth and witloof chicory. Approximately 50% of the absorbed ¹⁴C was translocated out of the roots to shoots of both species at 24 and 48 h after treatment. After 72 h about 55 and 74% of the absorbed ¹⁴C was translocated to shoots of witloof chicory and common amaranth, respectively. Distribution of ¹⁴C (g^?1 plant dry wt) in plant parts of witloof chicory and common amaranth seedlings was similar. Roots of both species accumulated the highest concentration of total ¹⁴C, whereas shoots contained the lowest. Thin layer chromatography revealed that the herbicide was metabolized in neither species 48 h after treatment. No differences were found in absorption, translocation, or metabolism between witloof chicory and common amaranth with regard to propyzamide.     

Uptake, translocation and fate of 2,4-D and chlorsulfuron in Silene vulgaris (Moench) Garcke

Experiments were conducted to examine the up take, translocation and metabolism by S. vulgaris of two distinctly different herbicides: 2,4-D, a phenoxyalkanoic acid with growth regulator activity to which this species exhibits complete tolerance, and chlorsulfuron, a sul-fonylurea to which S. vulgaris is highly sensitive. Despite their structural dissimilarities 2,4-D and chlorsulfuron was readily absorbed by S. vulgaris with 65 and 69%, respectively, of the applied dosage being absorbed within 72 hours after treatment. Approximately 35% of the 2,4-D and 10% of the chlorsulfuron label was translocated out of the treated leaf after 72 hours. Neither herbicide accumulated in the terminal bud. Seventy-two hours after treatment 63% of the recovered ¹⁴C remained as unaltered 2,4-D in S. vulgaris, while in tomato, a 2,4-D sensitive species, 65% of the recovered ¹⁴C remained as intact herbicide. In S. vulgaris approximately 86% of the radioactivity remained as intact chlorsulfuron 72 hours after treatment compared to 12% in the tolerant wheat. The tolerance of S. vulgaris to 2,4-D could not be accounted for by limited absorption, translocation nor metabolic degradation of the herbicide. The sensitivity of S. vulgaris to chlorsulfuron would appear to be related to the inability of this species to metabolize the herbicide molecule.     

Modeling root absorption and translocation of 5-substituted analogs of the imidazolinone herbicide,imazapyr

Quantitative structure-activity relationships (QSAR) were developed between the physicochemical parameters of the 5-substituent of a series of analogs of the imidazolinone herbicide, imazapyr, and root absorption, translocation, inhibition of acetohydroxyacid synthase (AHAS), and herbicidal activity of the analogs. An optimum substituent lipophilicity (π = 1.85–2–3) for root absorption was identified for corn (Zea mays L.) and sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). Translocation from roots to shoots was greatest for those analogs having either highly nonpolar or highly polar 5-substituents, indicating that both symplastic and apopiastic mechanisms may be functioning. In addition, translocation from roots was positively correlated with electron-withdrawing parameters of the 5-substituent, and a possible mechanism governing this relationship is discussed. Modeling in vitro AHAS inhibition was not successful, but models were developed for herbicidal activity as measured in an Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Hevnh. bioassay. The whole-plant models described an optimum substituent lipophilicity (π = 0 71) which probably reflected the influence of this parameter on the component processes of absorption and translocation. Whole-plant activity was also greater for analogs having electron-donating 5-substituents; this result suggests that electron donation may be important for metabolism, or more likely, for AHAS inhibition.     

Pollinators of the invasive plant, yellow starthistle (Centaurea solstitialis), in north-eastern Oregon, USA

The potential pollinators of yellow starthistle ( Centaurea solstitialis ) were surveyed at six sites in north-eastern Oregon, USA, between May and September from 2000 to 2002. The objective of the study was to determine the species composition and relative abundance of the insects that visited yellow starthistle throughout the flowering season and to assess the pollen loads on their bodies in order to infer which species might be the most effective pollinators of this invasive plant species in north-eastern Oregon. A total of 1923 individual flower visitors were collected at the six sites over the 3 year study period, comprising four orders, 41 families, and 203 species of insects. The 20 most commonly collected species represented nearly 59% of the individuals and just ten of these species could be considered the key pollinators, judging by the combination of abundance and pollen carriage (the megachilids, Megachile apicalis (introduced) and Megachile perihirta , the apids, Apis mellifera (introduced), Bombus bifarius , Bombus centralis , Svastra obliqua , and Melissodes lutalenta , the halictids, Halictus tripartitus and Halictus ligatus , and the tachinid, Peleteria malleola . Over the 3 year study period, the six sites were consistently distinct in their flower visitor fauna, with the metropolitan Pendleton sites having a species composition distinct from the four mountain sites. Consistent patterns of interannual variation also were observed over the 3 year study. These patterns of flower visitation are interpreted in the context of the plant community within which yellow starthistle grows in north-eastern Oregon.     

Effects of two surfactant series on the absorption and translocation of 14C-glyphosate in sicklepod and prickly sida

The weed species, prickly sida (Sida spinosa L.) and sicklepod (Senna obtusifolia L.), were treated with ¹⁴C-glyphosate alone and formulated with different polyethlylane oxide (PEO) surfactants in tallow amine ethoxylate and non-ionic alkoxylate series to determine the amount of ¹⁴C-glyphosate absorption and translocation. The surface tension, contact angle, and ¹⁴C-glyphosate distribution were significantly affected by both the presence of different waxes on the plants and by the addition of surfactants to the glyphosate. The surface and contact angle values of the surfactants, with and without glyphosate, showed a significant increase as the PEO number increased in both surfactant series. A higher absorption of the ¹⁴C-glyphosate was recorded for S. spinosa compared with S. obtusifolia. The absorption and translocation of the ¹⁴C-glyphosate increased with the increase in the PEO number of tallow amine ethoxylate. In the case of the non-ionic alkoxylate surfactant series, an increase in the absorption of ¹⁴C-glyphosate was recorded when the surface tension and contact angle values decreased. There was no significant difference in the translocation values obtained in the two species after the addition of the surfactants. The amount of ¹⁴C-glyphosate absorbed by the treated leaf was significantly higher in the case of S. spinosa compared with S. obtusifolia. A linear relationship was observed with the physical properties, ¹⁴C absorption, and the efficacy of glyphosate with the addition of the non-ionic alkoxylate surfactant series. The percentage control was higher with the higher PEO surfactant in the tallow amine ethoxylate surfactant series and with the lower PEO surfactant in the non-ionic alkoxylate surfactant series as the two series are chemically different.     

Spatial and temporal changes in acetolactate synthase activity as affected by new herbicide ZJ0273 in rapeseed, barley and water chickweed

Propyl 4-(2-(4,6-dimethoxypyrimidin-2-yloxy)benzylamino)benzoate (ZJ0273), derived from a precursor compound pesticide (a derivative of 2-pyrimidinyloxy-N-aryl benzoate), is a novel herbicide used in the rapeseed field. This paper studied the differential tolerance or susceptibility of four plant species viz. Brassica napus L. (rapeseed), Hordeum vulgare L. (barley), Malachium aquaticum (L.) Fries (water chickweed), and Alopecurus aequalis Sobol. (equal alopecurus), to various concentrations of ZJ0273, based on the rate of inhibition of acetolactate synthase (ALS) activity. Brassica napus was observed as the most tolerant among four species in which ALS activity in vivo was hardly affected by ZJ0273 at 100 mg/L (recommended dose in the rapeseed field). In contrast, H. vulgare was found to be more susceptible which was reflected in the relative decline of ALS activity and lower biomass production even under at a lower rate of 10 mg/L of ZJ0273. The two weed species exhibited moderate susceptibility as compared to H. vulgare. The present study confirmed that ZJ0273 at 100 mg/L is the optimal dose of herbicide for rapeseed field. Seedling stage was critical in determining the tolerance of crops and susceptibility of weeds which indicated that over seven leaf stage was much safer for rapeseed whereas the two leaf stage juvenile water chickweed was more susceptible to the same rate of ZJ0273. Spatial and temporal variations in ALS activity as affected by 100 mg/L ZJ0273 in water chickweed, rapeseed and barley also suggested that the synchronized sampling based on the tissue position and seedling stage was necessary to examine precisely, the special difference in tolerance or susceptibility to ALS-inhibiting herbicide. The uppermost younger leaf seemed to be the most appropriate sample for evaluation. Furthermore, the variant tendency of ALS activity from different parts of plants between monocotyledons and dicotyledons to ZJ0273 treatments showed differential response which revealed some possible mechanism related to the altered absorption and translocation of the herbicide.     

Effect of non-ionic nonylphenol surfactants on surface physicochemical properties, uptake and distribution of asulam and diflufenican

The effect of non-ionic nonylphenol (NP) surfactants containing 4–14 ethylene oxide (EO) molecules on the distribution of asulam and diflufenican was investigated in Pteridium aquilinum L. Kuhn and Avena fatua L. The distribution of the herbicides was dependent on the EO content and concentration of surfactant and differed between plant species and herbicide. The surface properties of contact angle, droplet diameter and surface tension were examined. For solutions of asulam, the greatest reductions in contact angle, surface tension and greatest droplet diameter were obtained with surfactants of EO 6.5–10 (at 0.001–0.1%). For solutions of diflufenican, these responses were greatest when applied with surfactant of EO 4. Surfactants of EO 6.5–10 increased the uptake and translocation of [¹⁴C]asulam in P. aquilinum, particularly at surfactant concentrations of 0.01 % and 0.1 %. All surfactants increased uptake of [¹⁴C]asulam in A. fatua with no significant effects of surfactant EO number or concentration. For both species, there was a positive correlation between the optimum surface characteristics of the herbicide droplets and the uptake of asulam. With diflufenican, greatest uptake and translocation by mature frond tissue of P. aquilinum occurred at the highest concentration of surfactant EO 4; in A. fatua, however, uptake and translocation were not significantly affected by any of the surfactants.     

Effects of surfactants and simulated rainfall on the efficacy of the Engame formulation of glyphosate in johnsongrass, prickly sida and yellow nutsedge

The effects of surfactants and simulated rain were investigated on the efficacy of Engame and Roundup Ultramax formulations of glyphosate on johnsongrass ( Sorghum halepense L.), prickly sida ( Sida spinosa L.) and yellow nutsedge ( Cyperus esculentus L.). Flame surfactant provided the greatest enhancement of Engame efficacy and the effect was species-dependent. Flame enhanced the activity of Engame on johnsongrass and yellow nutsedge but not on prickly sida. Engame and Engame plus Flame were more active than Roundup Ultramax on a glyphosate acid-equivalent basis on johnsongrass without rain, and on yellow nutsedge with or without rain. The Engame and Roundup Ultramax activities on johnsongrass were similar with rain, and rain occurring between five and 30 min after treatment diminished their activities to < 38% of the control. With the addition of Flame surfactant, Engame activity on johnsongrass increased, such that 50% and 80% of the control were realized, even with rain occurring between five and 15 min after treatment, respectively. Engame and Roundup Ultramax provided better control of prickly sida than of johnsongrass following a rain event. The addition of Flame surfactant to Engame did not enhance the activity on prickly sida. Yellow nutsedge control with Engame and Engame plus Flame was greater than with Roundup Ultramax and rain had little effect on control regardless of the length of the rain-free period. These results demonstrated that the activities of Engame, Engame plus Flame and Roundup Ultramax were species-dependent and surfactant-dependent.