Recognition of important weeds in juvenile stages in crops of Northeastern Argentina

Abstract

Agroecosystems in northeastern Argentina form important plant communities. Climbing weeds can become invasive. Monitoring and early detection of detrimental species can contribute to preventing infestations and are useful tools to achieve sustainable agriculture. The aim of the present study was to recognize, describe, and differentiate 12 weed species in juvenile stages. This was performed to facilitate monitoring and prevent weed invasion in yerba mate, tea, cassava, sweet potato, peanut, rice, and sunflower crops in 8 different locations in the provinces of Misiones, Corrientes, and Chaco. Vegetation surveys were carried out in different crops in 8 localities. Propagules were harvested from the most important weeds and stored in the refrigerator at 6°C. Subsequently, seeds and cuttings were placed in inert substrate with controlled humidity and at room temperature in plastic containers. A digital caliper and a standard flexometer were used. Likewise, photographs were taken with a smartphone and digital camera. Seedlings of 12 species were obtained, observed, morphologically described, illustrated, their parts were measured, their initial phenological stages were recorded, and they were taxonomically identified. A comparative table of the species studied, a dichotomous key for field recognition, and illustrations of the different taxa are presented. The morphological differences in seedling and young plant stages are important and sufficient to recognize these 12 species in the field and thus be able to choose IWM strategies aimed at the sustainability of agroecosystems in the northeastern region of Argentina.