ACTIVITY OF PEROXIDASE AND CATALASE IN SOILS AS INFLUENCED BY SOME INSECTICIDES AND FUNGICIDES

Abstract

In this study the levels of peroxidase and catalase activity in ecological soil treated with two insecticides and two fungicides over a 28 days period were evaluated. Peroxidases are extracellular enzymes with an important role in the oxidation of lignin and the removal of toxic substances from the environment. Catalase activity can be related to the metabolic activity of aerobic organisms and gives information about the soil fertility. The soil samples were analysed once every 7 days after the pesticides application in soil. Soil enzymes activities were measured using spectrophotometric methods. Overall, peroxidase and catalase activity was affected, positively or negatively, depending on the number of treatments applied.