How does herbicide resistance develop in terrestrial plants?

Herbicide resistance in terrestrial plants primarily develops via seed production and outcrossing. This process involves the genetic variation that occurs within a population when individuals with herbicide resistance reproduce. When herbicides are applied, they can eliminate susceptible plants, leaving behind those that have inherited or developed resistance traits.

Because many plants are capable of outcrossing, they can exchange genetic material with neighboring plants, which can lead to the spread of herbicide resistance traits among the population. The offspring produced via seed production can inherit these resistance traits, leading to a larger proportion of resistant individuals over generations. This is especially notable in species that produce large amounts of seeds and can disperse them over wide areas, allowing for rapid population changes in response to herbicide application.

This mechanism highlights the importance of understanding plant reproductive strategies and genetics in managing and preventing herbicide resistance, making seed production and outcrossing crucial factors in the development of resistance.