Comparative Analysis on the Management of the Parasitic Weed Striga in the USA, Australia and Kenya

Abstract

Striga is an invasive root parasitic weed of economic importance in various parts of the world. The Striga financial loss across Africa is estimated to some $US 7 billion and the infested areas 50 million hectares. In the USA, Striga asiatica (L.) Kuntze was considered a threat to agriculture when discovered in 1956, triggering a costly eradication programme of over $US 250 million. In Australia, the detection of Striga Asiatica in July 2013 on seven properties near Mackay, Queensland (Australia), launched an eradication plan worth $AUS 5.86 million. Owing to its distribution, international spread and economic impacts, Striga is subject to intensive management strategies that vary from country to country. The overall objective of this paper is to undertake a comparative analysis on the management of two major weed species of the genus Striga, S. Hermonthica and S. asiatica, under three different contexts. This analysis compares options implemented in Australia, the USA and Kenya to manage these parasitic weeds. The biology and distribution of Striga is presented. Following its detailed description, the strategy deployed in each context is further reviewed and discussed in terms of strengths, weaknesses, future problems and potential improvements.