Rapid metabolism increases the level of 2,4-D resistance at high temperature in common waterhemp (Amaranthus tuberculatus)

Sci Rep. 2019 Nov 13;9(1):16695. doi: 10.1038/s41598-019-53164-8.

Abstract

Common waterhemp emerges throughout the crop growing season in the Midwestern United States, and as a result, the seedlings are exposed to a wide range of temperature regimes. Typically, 2,4-D is used in the Midwest to control winter annual broad-leaf weeds before planting soybean and in an early post-emergence application in corn and sorghum; however, the evolution of 2,4-D-resistant common waterhemp in several Midwestern states may limit the use of 2.4-D for controlling this problem weed. Moreover, temperature is one of the crucial factors affecting weed control efficacy of 2,4-D. This research investigated the effect of temperature on efficacy of 2,4-D to control 2,4-D susceptible (WHS) and -resistant (WHR) common waterhemp. Do se-response of WHS and WHR to 2,4-D was assessed at two temperature regimes, high (HT; 34/20 °C, d/n) and low (LT; 24/10 °C, d/n). Whole plant dose response study indicated an increased level of 2,4-D resistance in WHR at HT compared to LT. Additional investigation of the physiological mechanism of this response indicated that both WHS and WHR common waterhemp plants rapidly metabolized 14C 2,4-D at HT compared to LT. In conclusion, a rapid metabolism of 2,4-D conferred increased level of resistance to 2,4-D in WHR at HT. Therefore, application of 2,4-D when temperatures are cooler can improve control of 2,4-D resistant common waterhemp.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid / administration & dosage
  • 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid / metabolism*
  • Amaranthus / drug effects
  • Amaranthus / metabolism*
  • Biological Evolution*
  • Herbicide Resistance*
  • Herbicides / administration & dosage
  • Herbicides / metabolism*
  • Midwestern United States
  • Plant Weeds / drug effects
  • Plant Weeds / metabolism*
  • Temperature
  • Weed Control / methods*

Substances

  • Herbicides
  • 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid