Absorption, translocation and metabolism of pyridate in a tolerant crop (Zea mays) and two susceptible weeds (Polygonum lapathifolium L. and Chenopodium album L.)

Summary Absorption, translocation and metabolism of 14C-pyridate were compared in tolerant maize. moderately susceptible Polygonum lapathifolium and susceptible Chenopodium album. Foliar absorption was limited in all species, but comparatively higher penetration levels were observed in younger leaves of dicotyledonous species. The absorbed radioactivity was not very mobile and translocation appeared mainly sym-plastic. Herbicide selectivity could not be explained on the basis of absorption and transport. Chenopodium and P. lapathifolium degraded pyridate and formed unstable water-soluble conjugates that easily released a phytotoxic metabolite. By contrast, more stable unidentified water-sol…