Premium
Parthenium hysterophorus in N epal: a review of its weed status and possibilities for management
Author(s) -
Shrestha B B,
Shabbir A,
Adkins S W
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
weed research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.693
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1365-3180
pISSN - 0043-1737
DOI - 10.1111/wre.12133
Subject(s) - parthenium hysterophorus , weed , weed control , agroforestry , agriculture , agronomy , geography , biology , ecology
Summary The rapid expansion of the alien invasive P arthenium hysterophorus is a new agricultural and environmental problem for N epal. Although the weed was first recorded in 1967, the most significant expansion has occurred in the last 20 years. The weed is thought to have entered Nepal from India and currently is found in the T arai, S iwalik and h ill regions of N epal. A CLIMEX modelling projection has shown these regions to be climatically suitable for the growth of P . hysterophorus , both under the present and a future projected increased temperature. From the initially invaded roadside vegetation, the weed has now spread into cropping land and forests. Vehicle movement and transportation of agriculture products are the main means by which its seed is spreading. The weed has reduced plant species richness and changed species composition in grasslands, while fodder collectors have developed contact dermatitis from the plant. To date, no sustainable management strategy has been developed for this weed. However, the fortuitous arrival of the biological control agents Z ygogramma bicolorata and P uccinia abrupta var. partheniicola has had some impact upon the weed's growth and abundance. A CLIMEX modelling projection identifies many suitable locations for Z . bicolorata outside of its present range and within areas where the weed is likely to spread, both under the present and under a future projected climate of increased temperature. Mapping of the currently invaded areas, management through community involvement and further releases of new and redistribution of current biological control agents are required to manage P . hysterophorus in N epal.