Biological control of weeds by means of plant pathogens: Significance for integrated weed management in modern agro-ecology

Biological control of weeds by using plant pathogens has gained acceptance as a practical, safe, environmentally beneficial, weed management method applicable to agro-ecosystems. The interest in this weed control approach from public and private groups, and support for research and developmental effort, are on the upswing. This increasing interest is stimulated largely due to major economic, social, and environmental forces that are directing our choices in crop production practices. Some of these changes are market-driven while others are social and ecological in nature. These changes are in turn influencing the choices in weed control methods. In this regard, biocontrol with plant pathogens has been proven a feasible, albeit minor, component of modern integrated weed-management systems. This environmentally beneficial method should be promoted and exploited further to meet the current and future challenges in weed management in agro-ecosystems.