WESTMINSTER, Colorado - July 22, 2019 - Rapid increases in herbicide resistance show that weeds can undergo important genetic changes over very brief periods of time. But herbicide use isn't the only factor influencing the evolution of weeds.
An article featured in the journal Invasive Plant Science and Management shows climate and elevated levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) are also influencing how weeds evolve and may actually contribute to the development of herbicide resistance.
After a review of the available literature, the authors compiled several key findings about the role climate plays in weed evolution:
The authors say further research is needed to close important knowledge gaps and to further explore the relationship between climate and herbicide resistance.
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The article "Understanding the nexus of rising CO2, climate change, and evolution in weed biology" is available at Invasive Plant Science and Management vol. 12 issue 2
About Invasive Plant Science and Management
Invasive Plant Science and Management is a journal of the Weed Science Society of America, a nonprofit scientific society focused on weeds and their impact on the environment. The publication focuses on invasive plant species. To learn more, visit http://www.wssa.net .
Invasive Plant Science and Management