Variation in elemental composition as influenced by chlorpyrifos application in mung bean (Vigna radiata L.)

Chlorpyrifos (O,O-diethyl O-(3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridyl) phosphorothioate), is an organophosphate insecticide effective against a broad spectrum of insect pests of economically important crops. The present study investigated the effects of chlorpyrifos application on sulfate assimilation and macro elemental composition in different plant parts at different phenological stages. Field experiments were conducted in the month of April 2008-2009. The individual plot size was 6 m² (4 m × 1.5 m) having 4 rows with a row-to-row distance of 15 inches and plant to plant distance of 10 inches. The number of plants per m² was 15. Seedlings were collected at 5 (preflowering), 10 (flowering) and 20 (postflowering) DAT (day after treatment) to analyze the effect of chlorpyrifos on APR activity and elemental composition. At harvest stage, seed from individual treatments were analyzed for sulfur containing amino acids like methionine and cysteine content. Twenty-day-old seedlings of Vigna radiata L. were subjected to chlorpyrifos at different concentrations ranging from 0 to 1.5 mM through foliar spray in the field condition. A significant increase (50% in cysteine content and 50-92% in methionine content) in sulfur containing amino acids at a higher dose rate of 1.5 mM was recorded in seeds, however the increased activity of adenosine 5-phosphosulfate reductase (APR), the key enzyme in sulfate assimilation was recorded in all the three parts of the plant (leaf, stem, root.). Transiently lower nitrogen, sulfur and carbon content in 0.6 and 1.5 mM chlorpyrifos application in V. radiata L. supports the inhibition of metabolic processes. However, reverse trend was exhibited at 0.3 mM for same parameters. These results suggest the stimulatory effects on sulfate assimilation in V. radiata L. while as inhibitory effects were prevalent on elemental composition.