Optimization of extraction and detection method for imazapyr and imazapic residues in water, soil and fish tissue samples using high performance liquid chromatography

The combination of imazapyr and imazapic herbicides was first introduced to increase the crop yields in agricultural areas around the world by killing unwanted plants. Unfortunately, previous literatures have proved that imazapyr is persistent in environmental media (soil and groundwater). In some studies, these herbicides have also been claimed to pose a potential risk to non-target organisms as well as causing possible health threats to humans. Therefore, developing a suitable extraction and detection method of these residues at low level in biological and environmental samples is highly necessary to ensure food safety and to protect the environment. Imazapyr and imazapic were extracted from water and fish tissues using solid phase extraction, whereas solid-liquid extraction was used for soil samples. The extracts were analyzed using High Performance Liquid Chromatography. Results showed that recoveries were found to range from 80% to 130%. These were the methods used to determine the residues from the actual samples collected in Sawah Sempadan. Analysis showed that a total of 86% of the samples revealed presence of imazapyr and imazapic. Therefore, these methods are proven to be sufficient in analyzing the environmental presence of these herbicides