Allelopathy Journal

  • Year: 2008
  • Volume: 21
  • Issue: 1

Allelopathic potential of Ocotea odorifera (Vell) Rohwer on the germination and growth of Lactuca sativa L. and Raphanus sativus L.

  • Author:
  • A.B. Gatti, M.I.S. Lima, S.C.J.G.A. Perez
  • Total Page Count: 10
  • DOI:
  • Page Number: 73 to 82

Department of Botany, Federal University of São Carlos - São Paulo – Brazil Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 235, C.P.: 676, CEP. 13.566–905.

Abstract

The allelopathic potential of aqueous extracts of the leaf, stem and root of Ocotea odorifera was investigated on the germination and growth of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) and radish (Raphanus sativus L.). Additionally, the use of coconut fibre as substrate for seedling growth in allelopathic bioassays was compared with filter paper. The leaf extract of Ocotea odorifera drastically reduced the seed germination in lettuce and radish, whereas, the stem and root extracts delayed their germination. The roots of test species were the most sensitive organs to allelochemicals. The coconut fibre substrate, stimulated the root length, but the filter paper substrate inhibited the root elongation, mainly with root extract at highest concentration.

Keywords

Allelochemical, allelopathic potential, aqueous extracts, bioassays, coconut fiber, filter paper, Lauraceae, Ocotea odorifera, terpenes