The biology, ecology and management of Isatis tinctoria L.: An important weed of rangelands

Background:  Rangelands provide important ecosystem services, supported by the diverse flora of both weedy and native desirable plant species. Isatis tinctoria L., commonly known as dyer's woad, is one of the most important and common weeds that predominantly established in rangelands and has recently expanded into croplands, globally. The knowledge of the behaviour and management of this species has not been synthesized, curtailing further research and sustainable management.

Objective:  This review aims to provide extensive knowledge of the biology and ecology of I. tinctoria to highlight its growth traits, lifecycle, distribution, competition dynamics, invasiveness and different management options.

Methods:  In this paper, we have reviewed and discussed the available literature on various aspects of the biology and management of I. tinctoria.

Results:  Isatis tinctoria is highly competitive in nature, often forming dense stands which result in crop and pasture suppression and yield reduction in infested areas. The production losses associated with I. tinctoria infestations in rangelands have been estimated to be upwards of $ 2 million (USD) annually in the United States of America (USA), while such data are lacking from other parts of the world. Several control methods including preventive, chemical, cultural, and biological options have shown varying degree of success against this weed. Biological control agents such as Puccinia thlaspeos and Aulacobaris fallax in rangelands have been introduced in the USA. However, the efficacy of these biological control options varies.

Conclusions:  An integrated approach using biological control in combination with cultural (for rangelands) or chemical control (for agricultural areas) could be feasible for controlling this weed.

Keywords:
Dyer's Woad; Rangelands; Weed Ecology; Invasive Species; Weed Management