Shape-shifting carbon ring helps researchers test alternative weed management tactic

An organic compound that includes an eight carbon ring

Source: © Craig M Williams/University of Queensland

Pausing plant growth, rather than completely inhibiting it, might make weeds less inclined to develop resistance

A compound designed and synthesised by researchers in Australia can stop an invasive plant known as rubber vine from growing for six weeks. The work sheds new light on the little-studied process of herbistasis and explores how researchers could remodel existing herbicides as herbistatic agents.