TOXIC EFFECTS OF SOOTS ON THE ROOT-MERISTEMS OF ALLIUM-CEPA

The toxic effects of soots on the root meristems of Allium cepa was studied. Three different concentrations of soots have been used to find out the effect on mitotic index. The results indicate low mitotic activity at 1, 6, 15 h during treatment as well as during recovery in tap water in all the three experimental groups. Four different concentrations of soots were used to observe the effect on root length, and cytological behaviour of the cells in the root tip. The growth of root in length was adversely affected in all the four soots treated groups depending upon the concentration of the soots. Sticky chromosome, chromosomal bridge and fragments were also noticed in soots treated groups.