Effect of 2,4-D on the formation and germination of akinetes in Pithophora oedogonia (mont.) Wittrock

Abstract

Pithophora oedogonia (Mont.) Wittrock (1877), the filamentous green alga was studied by several workers, and contradictory reports exist on spore formation and spore germination in this alga (cf. Agrawal and Sarma, 1983 & Agrawal and Chaudhary, 1988). The present study aims at evaluating the impact of the herbicide 2, 4-Dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2, 4-D) on the sporulation and akinete germination with a view to evolving strategy for the control of this algal weed causing nuisance in natural water bodies. The study revealed that 2, 4-D at concentrations ranging from 0.1-20 ppm in BBM nutrient solution or agarized medium, the initiation of sporulation showed progressive delay with concomitant decrease in the germination of akinetes. 2, 4-D at and above 30 ppm conc. proved lethal to the alga inhibiting spore formation and germination of the akinetes already developed.