Le Striga gesnerioides et son hôte, le niébé : interaction et méthodes de lutte

Abstract

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) is an important legume crop in subsaharian Africa. However, its cultivation is threatened by the parasitic weed Striga gesnerioides (Willd.) Vatke, which causes considerable yield losses. Striga gesnerioides is an obligate parasite with low photosynthetic activity. Its seeds germinate in response to specific germination stimulants exuded by host roots. After germination, an haustorium is formed through differentiation of the radicular apex. A vascular connection is subsequently established, allowing the parasitic weed to absorb water and nutrients that are essential for its development. Control of S. gesnerioides is difficult to achieve because of the intimate association between the parasitic weed and its host. The use of resistant cowpea cultivars, in combination with appropriate cultural practices, is probably the easiest and most effective method to control S. gesnerioides and achieve long term reduction of its seed bank in the soil.Key words: germination, interaction, control methods, cultivar resistance, Striga gesnerioides, Vigna unguiculata.