Parthenium Weed: Biology, Ecology and Management

by Stephen Adkins, Asad Shabbir, Kunjithapatham Dhileepan

Overview

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 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.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781780645254
Publisher:	CABI
Publication date:	12/31/2018
Series:	CABI Invasives Series , #7
Pages:	312
Product dimensions:	6.80(w) x 9.70(h) x 1.10(d)

About the Author

Stephen Adkins is Professor of Plant Physiology at The University of Queensland (UQ). He obtained a degree in Botany and Zoology from the University of London and a PhD in Seed Physiology from the University of Reading (UK). He joined UQ in 1988, founding the Integrated Seed Research Unit. His research has focused on the dormancy mechanisms of weeds and native plants, the management of invasive plants and the improvement of tropical crops using tissue culture.

Asad Shabbir is at University of the Punjab, Pakistan.

Kunjithapatham Dhileepan

Table of Contents

1: A Forward and an Introduction to the ‘Demon Plant’ Parthenium Weed
2: Biology and Ecology
3: Spread
4: Interference and Impact of Parthenium Weed on Agriculture
5: Impacts on the Environment
6: Impact of Parthenium weed on Human and Animal Health
7: Biological Control
8: Management: Physical, Cultural, Chemical
9: Coordination of Management
10: Parthenium weed: Uses and Abuses
11: History and Management - Australia and Pacific
12: History and Management – Southern Asia
13: History and Management in East and South-East Asia
14: History and Management – Southern Africa and Western Indian Ocean Islands
15: History and Management – East and North Africa, and the Middle East
16: Conclusions