Viability and vigour of different maize (Zea mays L.) inbred lines treated with neonicotinoids

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of different neonicotinoid seed treatments on viability and vigour of maize (Zea mays L.) inbred lines. The trial included three maize inbred lines (207 x 312/5 DNS, 7-1 NS, and 312/5 DNS) treated with recommended doses of three commercial formulations of systemic insecticides (Poncho 600-FS, Gaucho 600-FS, and Cruiser 350-FS). Generally, formulation Gaucho 600-FS can be considered the most harmful regarding the impact on the reduction of germination in all tested maize inbred lines. A significant reduction of germination in maize inbred line 7-1 NS was observed after seed treatment with Cruiser 350-FS, using the standard germination test and cold test. A significant increase in seedlings root and shoot growth of maize inbred line 312/5 DNS treated with Poncho 600-FS and Cruiser 350-FS was noted using the cold test.