Differential Response of Corn Hybrids and Inbreds to Metolachlor

Abstract

Greenhouse studies were conducted to determine the response of 200 corn hybrids and 29 inbreds to metolachlor applied at 4.5 kg ai ha−1. Both hybrids and inbreds varied in their response to the herbicide. The distribution of injury revealed a normal distribution curve with most of the hybrids having a midlevel of tolerance. Some hybrids were very tolerant, while others were quite sensitive. Laboratory studies were conducted to evaluate absorption and metabolism of14C-metolachlor for a subset of tolerant and sensitive hybrids. There was no observed difference in the product of metolachlor metabolism in the tolerant and sensitive hybrids. The observed variability in metolachlor tolerance among hybrids appeared due to differences in the amount of metolachlor absorption and metabolism and differences at the site of metolachlor action. The tolerant ‘Great Lakes 584’ hybrid absorbed significantly less14C-metolachlor than did the sensitive ‘Pioneer 3744’, while the tolerant ‘Cargill 7567’ metabolized significantly faster more14C-metolachlor than the other hybrids. The internal concentrations of available14C-metolachlor were the same for the tolerant Cargill 7567 and the sensitive ‘Northrup King 9283’ after 8 h, indicating differences at the site of action of metolachlor for these two hybrids.