The effect of paraquat on oestrogenic isoflavones in Dwalganup subterranean clover

Abstract

Paraquat was sprayed at sub-lethal doses on young clover plants. It decreased leaf isoflavone concentrations by more than 30 per cent. This response was not associated with the defoliating effect of paraquat. The relevance of the finding to grazed pastures is discussed. We argue that our results may be extrapolated to the autumn-early winter period, but not to spring.