Phytotoxicity of Atrazine, S-Metolachlor, and Permethrin to Typha latifolia (Linneaus) Germination and Seedling Growth

Phytotoxicity assessments were performed to compare responses of Typha latifolia (L.) seeds to atrazine (only) and atrazine + S-metolachlor exposure concentrations of 0.03, 0.3, 3, and 30 mg L-1, as well as permethrin exposure concentrations of 0.008, 0.08, 0.8, and 8 mg L-1. All atrazine + S-metolachlor exposures resulted in significantly reduced radicle development (p < 0.001). A stimulatory effect for coleoptile development was noted in the three highest atrazine (only) exposures (p = 0.0030, 0.0181, and 0.0016, respectively). This research provides data concerning the relative sensitivity of T. latifolia seeds to pesticides commonly encountered in agricultural settings, as well as critical understanding and development of using T. latifolia in phytoremediation efforts for pesticide exposures.