Fabaceae response to dimethoate insecticide application: Investigation of germination, seedling growth and tolerance mechanisms

Karima Jalali; Issam Nouairi; Wael Taamalli; Amal Bouallegue; Wael TOUKEBRI; Nadia Kallala; Haythem Mhadhbi

Just Accepted

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Fabaceae response to dimethoate insecticide application: Investigation of germination, seedling growth and tolerance mechanisms

Karima Jalali , Issam Nouairi, Wael Taamalli, Amal Bouallegue, Wael TOUKEBRI , Nadia Kallala, Haythem Mhadhbi

Abstract

Context. Pesticides are widely used to control crop diseases and pest infestations. However, their excessive and unregulated use poses considerable environmental challenges. Aims. To evaluate the effects of dimethoate, on the germination and seedling growth of Vicia faba, Vicia sativa, Trigonella foenum-greacum, and Medicago truncatula. Methods. Physiological and biochemical changes were studied under different dimethoate concentrations (0; 0.4; 0.8 and 1.2 g L-1). Key results. Results revealed that dimethoate significantly inhibited growth in all species, especially at 1.2 g L-1 of dimethoate. This negative effect was accompanied by reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and lipid peroxidation (MDA) induction. Different behaviors were revealed among the studied species. M. truncatula was the most sensitive, exhibiting toxicity even at the lowest concentration. In contrast, T. foenum-graecum showed remarkable tolerance, maintaining better growth at the highest dose compared to the two others species. The results of statistical analyses, including Pearson's correlation and PCA, support the use of fenugreek as a tolerant cover crop. Conclusion. T. foenum-graecum’s tolerance was associated with a lower reduction in total soluble sugars (25%) and a significant increase in antioxidant enzyme activity, particularly superoxide dismutase (70%). These adaptations are likely to help T. foenum-graecum cope with oxidative stress and maintain growth despite pesticide exposure. Implications. The results offer valuable decision support for using T. foenum-graecum’s as a cover crop in the field using dimethoate in pest control as grapevine and citrus fields.

CP24335 Accepted 18 April 2025