Abstract
Studies were conducted to determine the potential of the fungus, Aposphaeria amaranth!, as a bioherbicide for pigweeds (Amaranthus spp.). Experiments to establish the environmental parameters necessary for control of tumble pigweed (A. albus) demonstrated that an 8-hr dew period was sufficient for control of seedlings with four to six leaves, and that temperatures ranging from 20 to 28 C were conducive for disease development. Conidial concentrations as lowas 1x 10s conidia per ml also were sufficient for plant mortality. Host range tests demonstrated pathogenicity of A. amaranthi to several other species of Amaranthus, including biotypes resistant to triazine herbicides. Disease on redroot pigweed (A. retroflexus) was enhanced by incorporation of surfactants into inoculum suspensions. Field tests conducted in 1990 resulted in 73% control of redroot pigweed and 99% control of tumble pigweed. These results suggest that Aposphaeria amaranthi has potential as a bioherbicide for controlling pigweeds.
Recommended Citation
Mintz, A. S. and Weidmann, G. J.
(1991)
"Evaluation of Aposphaeria amaranthi as a Bioherbicide for Pigweed (Amaranthus Spp.),"
Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science: Vol. 45, Article 20.
Available at:
https://scholarworks.uark.edu/jaas/vol45/iss1/20
