Genotypic effect of cowpea (vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) on suicidal germination of Striga hermonthica (Del.) Benth.

Abstract

Striga hermonthica is a biological constraint to cereal crop production in sub-Saharan Africa. The aim of this study was to assess in Vitro the genetic variability of 14 cowpea varieties according to their ability to induce suicidal germination of S. hermonthica seeds. These 14 varieties were compared to a control variety resistant to S. gesnerioides using the cut-root technique. The genotypes tested showed significant differences in their ability to stimulate the germination of S. hermonthica seeds. S. hermonthica seed germination rates ranging from 9% to 27% were recorded with the 14 cowpea varieties, compared to 28% recorded with the reference control IT81D994. Analysis of variance showed four cowpea varieties, NIIZWE (27%), TILIGRE (27%), KVX780-3 (26%) and HTR (26%) endowed with the high ability to induce suicidal germination of S. hermonthica seeds. This study provided farmers with four cowpea varieties that can be used as trap crops in S. hermonthica controlling. Indeed, cowpea varieties inducing S. hermonthica seed germination rates of at least 10% would be recommended for use in rotation or intercropping systems with host crops in the management of the parasitic plant, particularly in an integrated management approach.