Basis for Synergism of Atrazine and Alachlor Combinations on Japanese Millet

The effect of atrazine [2-chloro-4-(ethylamino)-6-(isopropylamino)-s-triazine] and alachlor [2-chloro-2′,6′-diethyl-N-(methoxymethyl)acetanilide] combinations on various physiological processes was studied in order to establish a basis for the synergistic effect of this mixture on Japanese millet [Echinochloa crus-galli(L.) Beauv. var.frumentaceaL.]. In contrast to atrazine, alachlor had no effect on the Hill reaction activity of isolated Japanese millet chloroplasts. When used in combination with atrazine, alachlor had no influence on the inhibitory effect of atrazine on the Hill reaction. Atrazine and alachlor combinations reduced chloroplast protein and severely inhibited chloroplast protein synthesis relative to protein synthesis by other particulate fractions. This inhibition appears to be the basis for the synergistic effect of this herbicide mixture on Japanese millet. Although the mechanism of action of the herbicide mixture is not understood, it does not seem to involve inhibition of atrazine detoxification.