Short description
Understanding how host-parasite interactions for economically important parasitic weed species of rain-fed rice in sub-Saharan Africa are differentially affected by environmental conditions
Aim
Obtaining insights in how local environmental conditions determine the presence of parasitic weeds and the interactions with their hosts; to envisage future infestations and effects and generate pointers for sustainable and effective control strategies
Methodology
Greenhouse and growth chamber experiments on different life-cycle stages of the parasite with temp., CO2, water ranges; modelling.
Expected outputs
- Sound understanding of the biology and ecology of R. fistulosa
- Identification of major factors determining the prevalence of R. fistulosa and Striga species
- Provision of clues for rigorous control of both categories of parasitic weeds in rice