Determination of Seed Dispersal Mechanisms of Smoothseed Alfalfa Dodder (Cuscuta approximata Bab.) in Van

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In recent years, smoothseed alfalfa dodder (Cusucta approximata Bab.) has been seen as a major problem in alfalfa fields in Van province. In this study, it was aimed to determine the seed dispersal mechanisms and the level of contamination of alfalfa dodder for a successful weed control. Research area was divided into five distinct area (Gürpınar, Muradiye–Çaldıran, Center–Edremit–Gevaş, Erciş, and Özalp–Saray) based on districts’ climatic and some other characteristics. For this purpose, a total of 245 samples (consisting of 94 alfalfa seed samples, 100 irrigation water samples, 25 manure samples, and 26 of field soil samples) were taken around five different areas. The dodder seeds were investigated within these samples. As a result, approximately 6664 alfalfa dodder seeds were determined in 100 g of alfalfa seeds, an average of 524 seeds in 100 g of manure, and an average of 21 seeds in 4 kg soil sample. No seeds were encountered in irrigation water. Other dodder species were also found in alfalfa seeds, manure, and field soil samples. It was determined that maximum dodder seed infestation of alfalfa seeds was in Erciş district, maximum infestation of manure was in Muradiye–Çaldıran districts and the maximum infestation of soil was in Gürpınar district. As a conclusion, it was proved that the main dispersal way of the alfalfa dodder was established as alfalfa seeds. The other important dispersal way was determined as the use of manure.

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Alfalfa , Cuscuta approximata , Dodder , Seed , Dispersal Mechanism

Yuzuncu Yil University Journal Of Agricultural Sciences

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Yuzuncu Yil University Journal Of Agricultural Sciences