Phytotoxic Effects of 4-Chlorophenol and 2,4-Dichlorophenol in the Germination of Seeds of <i>Phaseolus vulgaris</i>and <i>Zea mayz</i>

Soil contaminated with pesticides may reduce plant development due to their toxicity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence on the germination of Zea mayz and Phaseolus vulgaris of the two main intermediates of the 2,4-D degradation, which are 4-chlorophenol (4-CP) and 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP). Maize and bean seeds were treated with distilled water (control treatment) and increased concentrations of 4-CP and 2,4-DCP (0.006, 0.1, 1.0, 1.5 g·L-1). It was assessed seed germination and calculated various parameters. The parameter most affected by chlorophenols was the index of germination rate, being the P. vulgaris seeds most affected. 2,4-DCP was the compound most toxic for both plants. The germination index was dependent doses for both plant models tested. The results indicate that 4-CP and 2,4-DCP affected the index of germination rate but not influenced in other parameters of germination of Zea mayz and Phaseolus vulgaris. Maize was most tolerance to both chlorophenols in the assessed concentrations. 2,4-DCP was the most toxic of chlorophenols tested.