The genus S triga : a witch profile

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Abstract
Summary: The genus S triga comprises about 30 obligate root‐parasitic plants, commonly known as witchweeds. In particular, S . hermonthica , S . asiatica and S . gesnerioides cause immense losses to major stable crops in sub‐ S aharan A frica. Most S triga species parasitize grass species ( P oaceae), but S triga gesnerioides has evolved to parasitize dicotyledonous plants. Aspects of phylogeny, economic impact, parasitic life style and molecular discoveries are briefly reviewed to profile one of the main biotic constraints to A frican agriculture. Taxonomy: Striga Lour.; Kingdom Plant; Division Angiospermae; Clade Eudicots; Order Laminales; Family Orobanchaceae. Important hosts: Sorghum Moench., maize ( Zea mays L.), rice ( Oryza L.), sugarcane ( Saccharum L.), pearl millet [ Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.], cowpea [ Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.]. Disease symptoms: Stunted growth, drought‐stressed‐like appearance, in severe cases chlorosis and necrosis. Economic importance: 1 billion $US per annum. Disease control: Hand weeding, breeding, chemical control, intercropping with catch or trap crops. Useful webpages: http://ppgp.huck.psu.edu ; http://striga.psc.riken.jp

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