The Basis of the Antagonistic Effect of 2,4-D on Diclofop-Methyl Toxicity to Wild Oat (Avena fatua)

Abstract

The interaction between diclofop-methyl {2-[4-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)phenoxy] methyl propanoate} and 2,4-D [(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)acetic acid] was evaluated. Foliar applications of the two herbicides in a tank mixture were antagonistic with respect to wild oat (Avena fatuaL.) control. Application of mixtures of the two herbicides to wild oat roots resulted in an additive herbicidal effect. The acid form of 2,4-D was determined to be the component of the 2,4-D formulation that reduced the toxicity of foliar-applied diclofop-methyl to wild oat. Analysis of diclofop-methyl solutions with and without added 2,4-D revealed no degradation products of dichlofop-methyl, nor any evidence of complexing between diclofop-methyl and 2,4-D. Addition of 2,4-D to the diclofop-methyl spray solution did not affect diclofop-methyl spray retention by, or penetration into, wild oat leaves. Movement of radioactivity to roots and to shoot apices following application of14C-diclofop-methyl to wild oat leaves was reduced by addition of 2,4-D to the treatment solution. Deesterification of diclofop-methyl was inhibited by 2,4-D. The accumulation of diclofop-methyl in these wild oat leaves resulted in membrane damage and leaf necrosis. Symplastic movement of the des-methyl acid, diclofop, to sensitive meristematic areas was reduced. As insufficient toxicant reached meristematic areas to permanently interrupt meristematic activity, the wild oat plants were able to outgrow the contact damage to their leaves.