Characterization of the Weed Flora in Rice Areas under Distinct Cropping Systems and Herbicide Managements

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of weeds in flooded rice areas, as a function of planting system and herbicide programmes in the previous cropping year. The experiment was installed in field conditions, in randomized complete blocks design, arranged in factorial scheme 3 x 2, with eight replications. In factor A, treatments consisted on conventional tillage, minimum tillage and no till cropping systems, coupled to the application (traditional control) or not (semi-ecological system) of herbicides (Factor B). One year after rice cultivation, preceding the planting of the next cropping season, phytosociological evaluations of the weed communities present in the treatments were carried out. We assessed the overall infestation level and weed species composition, which were classified by their respective density, frequency and dominance abilities. We also estimated the diversity coefficients of Simpson and Shannon Weiner, and the sustainability coefficient of Shannon; treatments were also grouped by similarity in weed species composition. Rice growing systems (traditional or semi-ecological) promote remarkable differences in weed occurrence. Herbicide-based crops select specific companion weed species, but crop rotation or winter cover crops are not a sine qua non condition for success since a good herbicide programme is planned. For the Semi ecological system, crop rotation, thick winter soil mulching and association with animal presence and grazing are essential for the short, medium and long-term inhibition of weeds.