EVALUATION OF PHYTOTOXIC AND CYTOTOXIC POTENTIALS OF SOME FERNS

Studies on cytotoxicity and phytotoxicity of ferns might reveal key mechanisms inherent among them for protection from predators and competitor plants. Cytotoxic and phytotoxic effects of extracts of seven fern species were evaluated by pollen germination and seed germination bioassays respectively. All these species showed more or less inhibitory effects. Phytotoxic effects of ferns might be one of the reasons for their dominance in vegetation in the areas they grow. Cytotoxic potentials of ferns would be helpful in the development of antitumor drugs in future. Pollen germination bioassay for Screening cytotoxicity using Catharanthus roseus was found to be rapid and easy method like conventional root tip meristem cells test of garlic.