Journal: Environmental Contaminants Reviews (ECR)
Author: Raksha Pokhrel

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License CC BY 4.0, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

Doi:10.26480/ecr.01.2025.19.23

ABSTRACT

Herbicide resistance in weed species poses a significant threat to global food security by reducing crop yields and complicating weed management strategies. Since the introduction of synthetic herbicides in the mid-20th century, resistant weed populations have increasingly emerged due to the widespread and repeated use of herbicides, particularly systemic types like glyphosate. We’re in a difficult spot globally when it comes to managing weeds. A growing number of weeds are developing resistance to multiple herbicides simultaneously, meaning many of our current herbicides are becoming ineffective. Resistance arises through genetic mutations, categorized mainly as target-site or non-target-site mechanisms. The evolution of “superweeds” and the rapid increase in resistance cases highlight the urgent need for integrated weed management (IWM) approaches. However, economic, labor, and practical constraints, alongside a focus on major crops, limit the adoption of sustainable management practices. This review explores the history, mechanisms, and challenges of herbicide resistance and discusses the importance of diversified weed control tactics.

KEYWORDS
Herbicide resistance, glyphosate, target-site resistance, non-target site resistance, integrated weed management, superweeds