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Resistance of Eleusine Indica (L.) Gaertn to Paraquat and Glyphosate in Oil Palm Plantations and Evaluation of Propaquizafop as an Alternative Control
Abstract
Introduction
Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn. is a common grass weed frequently found in oil palm plantations. In the West Kalimantan and Riau Provinces of Indonesia, oil palm growers are increasingly reporting reduced herbicide efficacy, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of current weed management practices. This study aimed to (1) confirm the levels of resistance to glyphosate and paraquat in E. indica and (2) evaluate the effectiveness of the herbicide propaquizafop in controlling resistant populations.
Methods
Seeds of E. indica suspected to be herbicide-resistant were collected from oil palm fields in West Kalimantan and Riau, while seeds of the susceptible biotype were obtained from West Java. Resistance testing was conducted using the whole-plant pot assay method. Glyphosate, paraquat, and propaquizafop were applied at seven dose levels: 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 8 times the recommended field rate.
Results
Eleusine indica populations from Riau and West Kalimantan were confirmed to be multiple herbicide resistant to both glyphosate and paraquat. The resistance index values were 2.58 and 4.36 for glyphosate and 2.30 and 3.37 for paraquat, respectively. However, the resistant biotypes remained susceptible to propaquizafop, with resistance index values of less than 2.
Discussion
These findings are consistent with previous reports indicating that E. indica in Malaysia has developed multiple resistance to fluazifop-P-butyl, paraquat, glufosinate, and glyphosate [23]. However, further research is needed to identify effective herbicide mixtures and alternative herbicides with different modes of action for managing resistant populations. Additionally, a comprehensive investigation of the underlying resistance mechanisms is essential to inform sustainable weed management strategies.
Conclusion
The findings of this study suggest that propaquizafop is a promising alternative herbicide for managing Eleusine indica populations resistant to paraquat and glyphosate.
