Parthenium Weed

This book explores the most important aspects of the biology, ecology and management of what is one of the world's worst weeds. Originally regarded as a major weed in Australia and India, Parthenium weed is now widespread in around 48 countries in Africa, Asia and the South Pacific, and has the potential to spread to new countries in Africa, Asia and Europe. This book, which is a collective effort by 27 members of the International Parthenium Weed Network, addresses research and knowledge gaps for different countries. It examines the weed's mode of spread, its impact on agricultural production, its effect on the environment and on human health, and its management using biological control, as well as cultural, physical and chemical approaches. It also considers the coordination of the weed's management, possible uses for Parthenium weed, its present distribution and how this is impacted by climate change. This book includes: A detailed analysis of Parthenium weed biology. Experiences with Parthenium weed worldwide. An explanation of practical management options. This book will be of interest to graduate students and researchers in universities and institutes, in the fields of plant ecology, botany, agriculture, conservation and restoration ecology.

The Problem Of Parthenium Weed Has Been Apparent Since More Than Five Decades And Is Continuing To Affect Health Of Humans, Animals, Flora And Environment. It Is One Of The Most Defamed Terrestrial Weed In India. To-Day, Probably More People Are Aware Of Its Obnoxious Effects And Want To Eradicate / Arrest Its Menace Immediately. Principally, No Plant Should Be Eradicated, As The Nature'S Creation Has Some Role To Play Some Time And Some Where On This Planet; Hence It Is Crucial To Preserve The Plant Without Allowing It To Harm Living Beings And Environment. The Subject Of This Weed Is Beset With Several Complexities In Its Understanding. For Example, A Few Could Be Very Special Features Of The Plant To Grow Under Even Harsh Environments, With Unique Ecology, Effect On Ecosystems And Environment, Crop Communities, Human And Animal Health Hazards. This Book Addresses The Issues Related To Management And Control And Is Hoped To Provide Practical Insights Into Special Features Of The Weed, Wide Adaptability, Over All Strategies For Viable And Workable Policy To Contain The Weed And Minimize The Negative Effects. It Also Deals With Governmental Assistance, Research And Extension Management, Need For Involvement Of Civil Societies And Also Assessment Of Economically Feasible Options.

INVASIVE ALIEN SPECIES Invasive Alien Species: Observations and Issues from Around the World Volume 1: Issues and Invasions in Africa Invasive alien species are spreading into new ecosystems each year. The impacts caused by these invaders can be swift and devastating. The topic of invasive alien species is large, complex, and globally significant at various scales, exacerbated by the globalization of world economies and increased trade and commerce that has overcome natural barriers to species movement. Invasive alien species threaten global food supplies, water quality and availability, and energy production and delivery. With the added risks associated with global climate change, the global homogenization of plants, animals, and microbes is a major factor in the decline in ecosystem health and ecosystem services worldwide. To counter this trend, there is a critical need to unify governments, cultures, and programs to improve cross-boundary coordination to effectively address the wide range of invasive alien species threats to the environment, economies, and to plant and animal health; particularly human health. This 4-volume work is the first to compile a set of useful material for key topics, to provide a better understanding of the overall global threat of invasive alien species and the diverse array of problems faced around the world, and assemble material that includes potential replicable solutions to overcome these threats. The books also highlight the threat posed by invasive alien species in terms of a global ‘call to action’. Since invasive species know no boundaries, it is our hope that by compiling material from different scientific and social perspectives around the world, and sharing knowledge and examples of a diverse array of associated topics, we can advance global awareness and improve unified national responses to the threat posed by invasive alien species.

Weeds are the main biological constraint to crop production throughout the year. Uncontrolled weeds could cause 100% yield loss. In Australia, the overall cost of weeds to Australian grain growers was estimated at AU$ 3.3 billion annually. In terms of yield losses, weeds amounted to 2.7 million tonnes of grains at a national level. In the USA, weeds cost US$ 33 billion in lost crop production annually. In India, these costs were estimated to be much higher (US$ 11 billion). These studies from different economies suggest that weeds cause substantial yield and economic loss. Biology and Management of Problematic Weed Species details the biology of key weed species, providing vital information on seed germination and production, as well as factors affecting weed growth. These species include Chenopodium album, Chloris truncata and C. virgate, Conyza bonariensis and C. canadensis, Cyperus rotundus, and many more. This information is crucial for researchers and growers to develop integrated weed management (IWM) strategies. Written by leading experts across the globe, this book is an essential read to plant biologists and ecologists, crop scientists, and students and researchers interested in weed science. Provides detailed information on the biology of different key weed species Covers weed seed germination and emergence Presents the factors affecting weed growth and seed production

This book discusses the biological control of weeds using arthropods, providing ecological management models for use across the tropical world.