Sunflower Threat: Invasive Weed ‘Orobanche’ Sparks Urgent Controls in Argentina

Orobanche, also known as ‘jopo,’ is a parasitic plant that can severely damage sunflower crops. This invasive weed, absent in Argentina but recently detected in Bolivia, has triggered heightened concern for the country’s agricultural sector. Senasa, the National Service for Agrifood Health and Quality, is taking action to prevent its spread. The agency is implementing a comprehensive strategy involving both public and private stakeholders to establish a robust surveillance network for early detection and control. Orobanche can severely impact sunflower production, potentially causing total crop failure. Senasa has established strict phytosanitary requirements for the import of sunflower seeds from countries where the weed is present. The weed’s seeds, highly resilient and capable of surviving in the soil for decades, can be easily dispersed by wind, water, and even livestock. Its presence poses a significant threat to Argentina’s sunflower industry, highlighting the importance of preventative measures.