What is the result of ALS and EPSP enzyme inhibitors in herbicides?

The correct answer highlights the specific action of ALS (Acetolactate Synthase) and EPSP (5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate) enzyme inhibitors, which are frequently used in herbicides. These inhibitors target critical biochemical pathways in plants that are essential for synthesizing amino acids.

When ALS and EPSP inhibitors are applied to plants, they block the production of vital amino acids such as leucine, isoleucine, and valine (in the case of ALS inhibitors) and tryptophan, phenylalanine, and tyrosine (in the case of EPSP inhibitors). The gradual depletion of these essential amino acids ultimately disrupts protein synthesis, affecting various physiological processes necessary for plant growth and survival.

As a result, this leads to a buildup of toxic metabolites and the eventual death of the target weed. The process is not instantaneous; it takes time for the plant to exhaust its resources and is typically characterized by a decline in growth leading to plant death over weeks. This understanding is crucial for effective weed management strategies in aquatic environments.