Absorption, translocation, and accumulation of carbendazim in opium poppy (Papaver somniferum L.)

Papaver somniferum L. is cultivated in European countries for edible seeds and seed oil, while in India, Bulgaria and Yugoslavia, it is a dual purpose crop cultivated both for seeds and opium. Since the crop is susceptible to fungal diseases, it is usually treated with Bavistin 50 WP (Carbendazim, methyl benzimidazol-2-yl carbamate). We (1993) have recently estimated the levels of carbendazim in leaves and fruits of opium poppy to study the residue levels when a recommended dose of the fungicide was used. In continuation of the previous work a study was undertaken to investigate the absorption, translocation and accumulation of carbendazim in various tissues when sprayed with different doses of the fungicide on opium poppy plant during growth.