With this study, we aimed to evaluate the competitive ability of rice genotypes in the presence of Alexandergrass (Brachiaria plantaginea) in different proportions. Experiments were performed in a completely randomized design with four replications. Treatments were arranged in a substitution series consisting of five rice to Alexandergrass ratios, respectively, as follows: 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75 and 0:100. At fifty days after emergence, measurements of plant tillering, height, leaf area and shoot dry mass of both rice and Alexandergrass were performed. Results indicated competition between rice and Alexandergrass, both being affected regardless of the plant ratio, resulting in a reduction of variables. There were differences in the competitive ability between rice genotypes in the presence of the weed. BRS Sinuelo CL was more competitive regarding dry mass and leaf area, while BRS Querencia surpassed BRS Sinuelo CL for tillering. Alexandergrass has a high competitive ability against rice, demanding the application of control practices in order avoid a negative impact on rice growth and development.
Oryza sativa; Plant interference; Plant ecology
