Genotoxic Effects of the Insecticide Cypermethrin on the Root Meristem Cells of Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus L.)

In this study, the genotoxic effects of the insecticide cypermethrin on the root meristem cells of sunflowers ( Helianthus annuus L.) were investigated. The roots were treated with 10- 25- 50- and 100-ppm concentrations of cypermethrin for 6, 12 and 24 h. The mitotic index and mitotic abnormalities were determined in both control and test groups. The cypermethrin showed a marked mitodepressive action on mitosis. The types of mitotic abnormalities included disturbed metaphase, c-mitosis, stickiness, laggards and chromatid bridges. A pronounced toxic effect was observed at the 50-ppm concentration. Cypermethrin may have genotoxic effects on sunflowers.