Goosegrass herbicide resistance research and monitoring program
Research program investigating glyphosate and glufosinate resistance mechanisms in goosegrass (Eleusine indica) populations across South China, including multi-resistance identification, molecular mechanism analysis, and field-applicable control strategies for resistant weed management.
Overview
This research program addresses the growing challenge of herbicide resistance in goosegrass (Eleusine indica), a major weed species in South China. The work investigates how changes in enzyme activity and differential gene and protein expression drive resistance to glyphosate and glufosinate, two widely used herbicides. By combining field sampling, physiological assays, and molecular analyses, the program delivers actionable insights for managing resistant weed populations and reducing reliance on single-mode-of-action herbicides.
Technical specifications
Research approach:
- Field sampling of goosegrass populations from at least 13 locations across South China
- Seed bioassay and shikimic acid content assessment to determine glyphosate resistance levels
- Whole-plant bioassay to evaluate glufosinate resistance
- Transcriptome and proteome sequencing of sensitive and resistant populations, with and without herbicide treatment
- Analysis of differentially expressed genes, including glutamine synthetase (GS), glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH), carbonic anhydrase (CA), and nitrite reductase (NirA)
- Physiological and biochemical assessment of biomass and enzyme activity to elucidate resistance mechanisms
- Field evaluation of sensitive and compound herbicide mixtures for controlling resistant populations
Technology readiness level
The program has produced validated findings: seven of thirteen surveyed populations show glyphosate resistance, four show glufosinate resistance, and two exhibit multi-resistance to both herbicides, with resistance ratios exceeding four. Transcriptome sequencing has annotated 27,326 unigenes and identified specific genes with differential expression in resistant populations. Future work will expand annual monitoring, deepen molecular characterization through proteomic and transcriptomic approaches, and translate findings into field-applicable weed management recommendations.
About South China Agricultural University
South China Agricultural University is a comprehensive public agricultural university in Guangzhou serving a large student and faculty community and spanning discovery through application. Industry engages through co-located experimental farms and greenhouses, accessible subtropical field sites, and on-campus veterinary clinical facilities. A research and technology park and strong links with regional growers and manufacturers in the Greater Bay Area support pilots, workforce pipelines, and rapid scale-up. Research is supported by competitive national and provincial funding in China, including foundation and ministry programs. A dedicated technology transfer office provides IP management, licensing, and startup incubation.
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