Biological Control Strategies of Purple Witchweed, Striga hermonthica: A Review

The genus of Striga spp., particularly hermonthica, is an obligate root-hemiparasitic weed. affects 25 African countries annually and considered a major biotic threat to food security. This obnoxious weed species has been managed using various control strategies. However, the strategies have not highly effective due complexity life cycle special interactions with its host. Biological control, safer ‘greener’ alternative, drawn attention numerous reports on potential biological agents, including insects microorganisms, Striga. Although researchers agree importance biocontrol approach as one alternative eco-friendly methods manage decreasing effectiveness some agents when introduced into new environments, in addition requirements before during application, restricts application large scale until today. review focuses current knowledge Striga, emphasizing method. challenges that limit broader are also highlighted.