Oxyfluorfen is a chemical compound used as an herbicide. It is manufactured by Dow AgroSciences, Adama Agricultural Solutions and 4Farmers under the trade names Goal, Galigan, and Oxyfluorfen 240.[2][3] Oxyfluorfen is used to control broadleaf and grassy weeds in a variety of nut, tree fruit, vine, and field crops, especially winegrapes and almonds. It is also used for residential weed control.[2]
Toxicity
Oxyfluorfen has low acute oral, dermal, and inhalation toxicity in humans. The primary toxic effects are in the liver and alterations in blood parameters (anemia).[2] It is classified as a possible human carcinogen.[2] Its LD50 is over 5000 mg/kg.[4]
Environmental impact
Oxyfluorfen is classified as an environmental hazard under the GHS due to being "very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects".[1]
Oxyfluorfen is toxic to plants, invertebrates, and fish. Birds and mammals may also experience subchronic and chronic effects from oxyfluorfen.[2] It is persistent in soil and has been shown to drift from application sites to
nearby areas.[2] It can contaminate surface water through spray drift and runoff.[2] Oxyflurofen's waterborne LC50 for trout is less than 0.5 mg/L.[4]
Mode of action
Oxyfluorfen is a diphenyl ether herbicide and acts via inhibition of protoporphyrinogen oxidase, (destroying chlorophill production and cell membranes),[3] making its HRAC resistance class Group G (Aus),[5] Group E (Global) and 14 (numerical).[6]
Oxyfluorfen suffers from poor translocation, despite rapid shoot and foliar uptake. Desiccation in affected weeds begins in hours, with necrosis and death following in days.[3]
Application
Oxyfluorfen is used in the USA and Australia, at rates of up to 1500 g/Ha.