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Leaf anatomy and morphometry in three eucalypt clones treated with glyphosate.
L D Tuffi Santos1, B F Sant'Anna-Santos, R M S A Meira
1Instituto de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Montes Claros, MG, Brazil.
Summary
Glyphosate herbicide drift affects eucalypt clones, with Eucalyptus urophylla showing higher tolerance. Microscopic analysis revealed cellular damage and anatomical changes proportional to herbicide dose.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Plant Biology
- Ecology
Background:
- Glyphosate is a widely used herbicide impacting non-target plants through drift.
- Understanding eucalypt clone sensitivity to glyphosate is crucial for sustainable forestry.
- Morphoanatomical responses provide insights into plant stress physiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the morphoanatomical effects of simulated glyphosate drift on three eucalypt clones.
- To correlate visual intoxication symptoms with microscopic changes.
- To determine the differential tolerance of eucalypt clones to glyphosate.
Main Methods:
- Simulated glyphosate drift application at five different doses.
- Visual assessment of symptoms (wilting, chlorosis, necrosis) at 7 and 15 days post-application.
- Microscopic examination of leaf tissues (epidermis, parenchyma) to analyze cellular and anatomical alterations.
Main Results:
- Glyphosate effects were dose-dependent, with higher doses causing severe damage.
- Eucalyptus urophylla exhibited greater tolerance compared to E. grandis and the urograndis hybrid.
- Microscopic changes included cellular plasmolysis, hypertrophy, hyperplasia, and tissue necrosis.
- Leaf anatomy showed decreased spongy parenchyma and increased palisade parenchyma and overall leaf thickness.
Conclusions:
- Eucalypt clone sensitivity to glyphosate drift varies, impacting clone selection for reforestation.
- Anatomical changes, such as increased leaf thickness, may represent a plant defense or recovery mechanism against glyphosate-induced damage.
- Microscopic analysis confirms and elaborates on visually observed symptoms, providing a deeper understanding of herbicide phytotoxicity.
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