The influence of the parasitic Striga species on the host crops sorghum and maize

The biology of the Striga species will be briefly described. Pot experiments indicate that damage to the host plant is very much greater than is explained by removal of photosynthates. A phytotoxin is almost certainly involved, which causes decreased shoot growth of the host plant but which also directly or indirectly encourages increased root growth. The significance of this change in root/shoot ratio will be discussed in relation to host resistance and various control measures.