Population diversity and dynamics of parasitic weeds

Abstract

Knowledge of the genetic diversity of parasitic weed populations is important in any attempt to develop resistance-breeding strategies for the relevant host crops. Moreover, comparative genetic diversity studies of parasite biotypes in natural habitats and crop fields are important for clarifying the evolutionary path from wild parasitic plants to aggressive parasitic weeds. The genetic diversity of plant populations, analysed by isozymes and SSR, RAPD, ISSR and AFLP markers, is determined by dynamics that deal with the variation in time and space of population composition, size and density. The key elements that determine variation in population dynamics and impact the genetic diversity of parasitic weed populations are the population history, the parasite mating system and dispersal strategy, host preferences and issues imposed by agricultural plant communities, including the existence of host resistances, and farming practices.