Inhibition of Photosynthesis in Downy Brome (Bromus tectorum) and Jointed Goatgrass (Aegilops cylindrica) Protoplasts by Metribuzin and its Ethylthio Analog

Abstract

Inhibition of net photosynthesis of jointed goatgrass and downy brome protoplasts by metribuzin and its ethylthio analog (ethyl-metribuzin) was greater at 25 than at 10 C. As temperature increased from 10 to 25 C, the concentration of ethyl-metribuzin required to inhibit net photosynthesis 50% (I50) decreased by a factor of 3.5 and 4.3, respectively, in jointed goatgrass and downy brome. I50values for metribuzin decreased by a factor of 1.5 and 2.5 in jointed goatgrass and downy brome, respectively, for the same 15 C increase in temperature. Based on I50values at 10 C, metribuzin was nine times more inhibitory than ethyl-metribuzin in jointed goatgrass and eight times more inhibitory in downy brome. At 25 C, metribuzin was only 4.7 and 3.9 times more inhibitory than ethyl-metribuzin in jointed goatgrass and downy brome, respectively. Thus, cold temperatures reduced the activity of ethyl-metribuzin more than metribuzin. The activity of both herbicides was reduced less in protoplasts of jointed goatgrass than in protoplasts of downy brome over the 15 C range.