title: Comparative toxicity of bentazon and molinate on growth, photosynthetic pigments, photosynthesis, and respiration of the Portuguese ricefield cyanobacterium Nostoc muscorum.
abstract: Bentazon and molinate are selective herbicides recommended for integrated weed management in rice. Their toxicity on growth and some biochemical and physiological parameters of Nostoc muscorum, an abundant cyanobacterium in Portuguese rice fields, was evaluated under laboratory conditions during time- and concentration-dependent exposure for 72 h. Results showed that toxic concentrations (0.75-2 mM) of both herbicides have pleiotropic effects on the cyanobacterium. Molinate was more toxic than bentazon to growth, respiration, chlorophyll-a, carotenoids, and phycobiliproteins contents. Protein content was increased by both herbicides although the effect was particularly evident with higher concentrations of molinate (1.5-2 mM). The herbicides had contrasting effects on carbohydrates content: molinate increased this organic fraction whereas bentazon decreased it. Photosynthesis and respiration were inhibited by both herbicides.
authors.affiliation: Department of Biology and Environmental Engineering/Centre for Research and Technology of Agro-Environment and Biological Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Apartado 1013 - 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal. vgalhano@utad.pt
authors.forename: Victor
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Galhano
authors.forename: Francisco
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Peixoto
authors.forename: José
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Gomes-Laranjo
authors.forename: Eduardo
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Fernández-Valiente