Adaptation of grassweeds to spring cropping through changes in germination, flowering time and fecundity.

ABSTRACT: The ability of weed populations to adapt is pivotal for their success in overcoming adverse conditions, including control measures and climate change. Here, we show evidence for the local adaptation of blackgrass (Alopecurus myosuroides) and Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) to the distinct seasonal windows for crop establishment. We assessed germination, flowering, and fecundity traits in 16 parental populations (eight each of A. myosuroides and L. multiflorum) sourced from fields with repeated autumn- or spring-cropping backgrounds. We find evidence of contrasting maternal and genetic influences on the response of A. myosuroides germination to light exposure. Alopecurus myosuroides seeds collected from fields with a spring-cropping background demonstrated higher germination rates (86

SUBMITTER: Kanomanyanga J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12215899 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature