The substituted urea herbicides were rated according to their effectiveness as aquatic herbicides in this order: diuron [3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea], monuron [3-(p-chlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea], neburon [1-butyl-3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1-methlyurea] and TCA(trichloroacetic acid) mixtures with them. They showed greatest potential in controlling certain aquatic plants in pre-emergence and early postemergence applications. However, relatively high concentrations were required to control filamentous algae (Cladophora, Pithophora and Spirogyra), chara (Chara), coontail (Ceratophyllum), naiad (Najas), and pondweeds (Potamogeton) for periods of time exceeding three months and up to three years. Granular formulations achieved better distribution of herbicides for control of rooted aquatic plants along the margins of lakes and ponds. Wettable powder and liquid emulsifiable concentrates were superior to granular formulations for the control of algae and emergent or floating aquatic plants.
Monuron and fenuron were less toxic to fish than were diuron and neburon. The TCA mixtures were somewhat more toxic than the simple ureas. Some species of fish were more sensitive than others and fingerlings more sensitive than adults of the same species. Fish-food organisms were reduced appreciably in plastic enclosures at herbicidal concentrations.
