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CYTOTOXIC EFFECTS OF HERBICIDE RON STAR ON MERISTEMATIC CELLS OF ALLIUM CEPA L.

SADIA K. BUTT AND AHSAN A. V AHIDY

Abstract: Actively growing root tips of onion (Allium cepa L) were used to evaluate cytotoxic effects of herbicide, Ronstar. The dividing cells exposed to 1000, 2000, 3000 and 4000 ppm of Ronstar for 3, 6, 9 and 12 h durations showed a significant reduction in mitotic index especially in treatments of higher concentrations and longer durations. Stickiness and fragmentation of chromosomes were the most frequent aberrations observed, bi- and multi-nucleate cells were noted as well. Abnormalities in lesser frequencies included Cmitosis and polyploidy. Such chromosomal abnormalities may effect adversely the vigor, fertility, yield or competitive ability of the plants exposed to the herbicide.

Department of Genetics, University of Karachi, Karachi-75270, Pakistan.