Endosulfan induced stress responses in Cowpea (Vigna sinensis L.) var. kanjikuzhy

Abstract

Endosulfan (C₉H₆Cl₆O₃S), the pesticide frequently applied in plantations, is reported as detrimental to human life and other fauna causing several growth hazards. The present study revealed the application of endosulfan which can retard plant growth affecting seed germination, growth of shoots, fruiting, etc. Seeds treated with different concentrations of endosulfan (0.01% - 2.0%) served as the experimental plants while non-treated plants as a control. A significant decrease in seed germination was observed among the experimental plants (6.6% to 0.0%) over non-treated plants (100.0%).  The amylase activity is correlated with the germination percentage. Total chlorophyll content and protein content were found to be decreased by the application of endosulfan, whereas total free proline content was found to be increased from 0.66 to 1.96 mg/gm tissue. Endosulfan treatment significantly increased the levels of peroxidase and catalase activity in both root and leaf samples. This data was further confirmed using histochemical assays.