Lactofen

Lactofen is a herbicide that belongs to the diphenyl ether group. It is primarily used in the control of broadleaf weeds in soybean and peanut crops. Lactofen is a contact herbicide, which means it only affects the parts of the plant that it directly contacts.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Lactofen has a chemical formula of C20H15ClF3NO4 and a molecular weight of 441.78 g/mol. It is a white crystalline solid at room temperature. The compound is slightly soluble in water and readily soluble in most organic solvents.

Mode of Action

Lactofen works by inhibiting the enzyme protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO), which is essential for the synthesis of chlorophyll. This inhibition leads to the accumulation of protoporphyrin IX, a compound that is toxic to the plant when exposed to light. The result is rapid cell death in the exposed areas, causing the weed to die.

Usage and Application

Lactofen is applied as a foliar spray, usually in combination with other herbicides to increase its effectiveness. It is most effective when applied to young, actively growing weeds. The herbicide is less effective on mature or stressed plants.

Safety and Environmental Impact

Lactofen is moderately toxic to mammals and birds, but is highly toxic to fish and aquatic invertebrates. It is recommended to avoid contamination of aquatic systems during application. The compound is not persistent in the environment and is rapidly degraded by microbes in the soil.

Resistance

Resistance to lactofen and other PPO inhibitors has been reported in several weed species. This resistance is usually due to a mutation in the target enzyme, which prevents the herbicide from binding and inhibiting its activity.

See Also

• Herbicide
• Weed
• Soybean
• Peanut
• Protoporphyrinogen oxidase
• Chlorophyll