Abstract

The allelopathic properties of Nypa fructican leaf and root extract on antioxidant enzymes: superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) activity of Rhizophora mangle, Tridax procumbens and Cyperus rotundus was investigated. Pot experiment was performed with different concentrations (0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%) of the leaf and root extracts of Nypa fructican. Distilled water was used as control (0%). The antioxidant enzymes (SOD), (POD) and (CAT) activities were measured using standard methods. The results showed a concentration dependent increase in the antioxidant enzyme; superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) activities. Allelochemicals disrupt the balance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants, altering the physiological condition of plants.