Abstract
Dittrichia viscosa (L.) W. Greuter is a pioneer species belonging to the Compositae family. It is widespread in the Mediterranean basin, where it is considered invasive. It is a source of secondary metabolites, playing an important ecological role. D. viscosa plant extracts showed a phytotoxic activity on several physiological processes of different species. In the current study, the allelopathic potential of D. viscosa VOCs, released by its foliage, was evaluated on seed germination and root growth of lettuce. The VOCs effect was also studied on lettuce adult plants in microcosm systems, which better mimicked the open field conditions. D. viscosa VOCs inhibited both seed germination and root growth of lettuce. The VOCs composition revealed a large presence of terpenoids, responsible of the effects observed. Moreover, D. viscosa VOCs caused an alteration on plant water status accompanied by oxidative damages and photoinhibition on lettuce adult plants.
Highlights
In vitro results showed that D. viscosa volatile organic compounds (VOCs) had a strong inhibitory activity on both seed germination and root growth of lettuce resulting in low ED50 values
The progressive reduction of the parameter Fv/Fm suggested a physical damage to the antenna complex, probably due to the high presence of ROS and lipid peroxidation. Taken together these results suggested that both photochemical and biosynthetic phases of photosynthesis were directly affected by VOCs [97] and the confirmation was given by the sharp alteration of sugars metabolism and, in particular, by the reduction in sucrose and glucose content observed after treatment
The results gave the first evidence of the allelopathic potential of D. viscosa through a bioassay that mimed natural environmental conditions of VOCs release
Summary
It is native to the Mediterranean region and it is considered a ruderal species due to its abundance in anthropic altered areas [1], and in particular, in metal-polluted sites [2]. D. viscosa has a remarkable pioneer nature since it colonizes different habitats in the Mediterranean basin where it often creates large monospecific communities [3]. In Australian and some European countries, this species is considered an important environmental weed for its high seed production and spreading, and for its resistance/adaptation to adverse conditions [3, 4]. The canopy is very dense reaching 150 cm of height and total leaf area per plant comprises 200 cm2 [6]. Glandular hairs, which produce a sticky resin from which derives “viscosa” name, cover the entire plant conferring its strong typical fragrance [3]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
