Mutageneic effects of Kochia indica extract on Vicia faba L

The present study investigate the effect of Kochia indica extract using Vicia faba L assay. All parameters investigated were being affected. Four concentrations of 10, 20, 30 and 40% were applied for three time duration (6, 12, 24 h). The percentage of germination and plant height are dose and time dependent, probably due to alterations in cell cycle. Treated roots were highly affected compared to seed treatment. Low doses applied for short time show stimulatory effect on germination, growth and MI parameters. On the other hand high concentrations applied for long time gave rise to substation reduction for all parameters investigated. The percentage of mitotic and meiotic abnormalities increase as the concentration increase and time prolonged. Various types of abnormalities with special reference to micronuclei, laggards and bridges were observed at all concentrations but more frequent at higher doses. Following the same trend meiotic parameters of chromosome association, chiasma frequency and pollen fertility were being negatively affected and dose dependent. High concentrations show low chiasma frequency, pollen fertility and high percentage of abnormalities. Types of multivalents and univalents were also observed. The present studies recommend the use of this extract at concentrations up to 30% to minimize the side effects on plants as non target organism. It also encourages use of botanical extracts for biological control instead of synthetic chemicals. [Journal of American Science 2010;6(7):292-297]. (ISSN: 1545-1003).