Weed population analysis in organic food production systems of Pangasinan Province [Philippines]
2023
Aguas, A.P.A. | Wagan, A.dM. | Paragas, A.T. | Bato, V.A. | Pangga, G.V.
Weeds serve as a paradox in agriculture, causing potential losses in crop production systems through competition and other causes, while also being a key component of agro-biodiversity and ecological health. Organic food production systems address this paradox through practices that promise to promote the welfare of both consumers and the environment. These systems implement physical and cultural weed control measures, such as hand weeding, cover cropping, and mulching, while avoiding pesticide application. This study investigates the effect of these practices on weed populations in certified organic farms producing vegetables and other food crops in Pangasinan Province [Philippines], specifically in the sites of Mangatarem, San Fabian, Alaminos City. Weed samples were collected from the cropping areas of the farms and sorted for species identification. Parameters such as relative biomass, relative frequency, and relative density were measured from the samples.The Sum Dominance Ratio (SDR) was computed to determine the dominant species in each farm. Species diversity was estimated using the Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index (H) and Pielou's Evenness Index (J). Results indicate that weed species in all sites were non-noxious, common weed species, with Mangatarem having 27 identified species, San Fabian with 14, and Alaminos with 6 species. High H and J values in Mangatarem and San Fabian suggest diverse weed communities in these farms, while lower H and J values in Alaminos City may be attributed to its marginal growing environment. The findings emphasize the importance of employing context-specific weed management strategies for organic farmers. Data can be used for further studies on agrobiodiversity and alternative weed control methods for organic food production systems.
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