Description
Book SynopsisThis 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 around 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.
Table of Contents1: 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 – 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
