Uptake and Translocation of Diquat in Elodea

Abstract

Uptake and translocation of 6,7-dihydrodipyrido[1,2-a:2′, 1′-c]pyrazidiinium salt (diquat) in elodea (Elodea canadensis Michx) was investigated by autoradiography and counting of plants treated with diquat-14C. Uptake initially was very rapid followed by a slower accumulation of diquat. Part of this uptake was reversible in water and rapidly reached a saturation value while the slower uptake was nonreversible. This reversibility of uptake appears to indicate an initial passive adsorption probably followed by accumulation. Slight basipetal and acropetal movement of diquat was demonstrated with accumulation in the nodes and axillary buds. Movement was unaffected by light versus dark treatments. Diquat injured treated and adjacent untreated shoots of elodea to almost the same extent. This transfer occurred whether or not the treated and untreated shoots were in contact.