Allelopathic potential of Anagalis arvensis L.

Abstract

Anagalis arvensis L. (Primulaceae) is a common cultivating weed, forming dense populations of undergrowth in warm and temperate regions of Pakistan. Allelopathic studies with aqueous extracts from whole plant including leaves, flowers, shoot and roots; litter and mulch in various experiments invariably reduced the germination, plumule growth, radical growth, number of seminal roots, cell size, and fresh and dry weights of two wheat varieties namely, Ghaznavi and Uqab, which were used as the test species. Phytotoxicity of extracts depended on the amount and soaking duration. Generally, the extracts obtained after 48 h soaking and the hot water extracts were more inhibitory. Addition of litter and mulch also proved inhibitory in the experiments. Our work suggested that A. arvensis had strong allelopathic potential but must further be tested for its weedicidal and insecticidal activities. From the practical view point, the identification of weeds with potential pool of allelochemicals, screening and identification of the toxic principle, assessment of their adverse effects on germination of crops during early growth stages and finally on the commercial yield is highly recommended. Keywords: Anagalis arvensis L. (Primulaceae), allelopathic, extracts, weed