A new study has found a way to kill weeds that have become resistant to herbicides. The study, led by Dr. Eric Patterson at Michigan State University, found that weeds can become resistant to herbicides by changing the arrangement of their genes. This change, called genetic structural variation (GSV), makes the weeds more resilient to the herbicides.
The study is important because it could lead to the development of new herbicides that are more effective against GSV-resistant weeds. It could also help farmers to develop better strategies for managing herbicide resistance.
The study was conducted on a weed called goosegrass. Goosegrass is a common weed in Michigan and other parts of the world. It is a very difficult weed to control, and it has become resistant to many herbicides.
Dr. Patterson and his team found that goosegrass can rearrange its genes in a way that makes it resistant to glyphosate, a widely used herbicide. This is the first time that GSV has been shown to play a role in herbicide resistance in goosegrass.
The study's findings could lead to the development of new herbicides that are specifically designed to target GSV-resistant weeds. These herbicides could be more effective than current herbicides, and they could help to slow the spread of herbicide resistance.
The study also has implications for the way that farmers manage herbicide resistance. Farmers can now use the study's findings to identify GSV-resistant weeds in their fields. They can then take steps to control these weeds, such as using different herbicides or rotating crops.
The study is a major breakthrough in the fight against herbicide resistance. It could help to save farmers money and protect crops from weeds. It could also help to ensure a more sustainable food supply for the future.
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Categories: Michigan, Crops