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Mechanisms of Hydroquinone-Induced Growth Reduction in Leafy Spurge

Journal of Chemical Ecology volume 25, pages 1611–1621 (1999)Cite this article

Abstract

Field observations indicate leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula) is inhibited by the presence of Antennaria microphylla. Hydroquinone (HQ), one of several compounds isolated from A. microphylla has been shown to inhibit leafy spurge seed germination, root elongation, and callus culture growth. The present study was designed to analyze the effects of HQ on water relations and photosynthesis of leafy spurge. Plants grown in 0.25 mM HQ had consistently higher leaf diffusive resistance and lower transpiration rates than control plants (P < 0.05). Chlorophyll fluorescence was significantly lower than controls (P < 0.05) towards the end of the treatment period. At the end of the treatment, tissue from 0.25 mM HQ plants had higher levels of 13C, indicating there had been a sustained interference with stomatal function. These data suggest that a disruption of the plant water balance is one mechanism of leafy spurge inhibition by A. microphylla.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Biology, Minot State University, Minot, North Dakota, 58707

    Richard R. Barkosky & Jack L. Butler

  2. Southwest Missouri State University, Springfield, Missouri, 65804

    Frank A. Einhellig

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  1. Richard R. Barkosky
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  2. Jack L. Butler
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  3. Frank A. Einhellig
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Barkosky, R.R., Butler, J.L. & Einhellig, F.A. Mechanisms of Hydroquinone-Induced Growth Reduction in Leafy Spurge. J Chem Ecol 25, 1611–1621 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1020892917434

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  • Issue Date:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1020892917434

  • Hydroquinone
  • allelopathy
  • plant water balance
  • photosynthesis
  • chlorophyll fluorescence
  • 13C isotopes
  • leafy spurge
  • Euphorbia esula
  • small everlasting
  • Antennaria microphylla Rydb