Cytological Effects of Agricultural Chemicals I

Effects of insecticides “Ekalux and Metasystox” on chilli (Capsicum annuum L.)

Abstract

The effects of two organophosphorous pesticides, Ekalux EC 25 and Metasystox have been studied utilizing×235 a popular local variety of chilli. Seed germination and survival rate steadily decreased with increased dose of chemicals. They have also resulted in reduction of mean chiasmata per cell and induced clastogenic changes such as stickiness of chromosomes, formation of univalents, laggards, bridges and micronuclei in different stages of meiosis. From these studies it can be concluded that indiscriminate use of chemicals effect normal plant growth and resulted in reduction of yield.