Cuscuta arvensis, Cuscuta pentagona
Field dodder, golden dodder, shabbakah
Cuscuta campestris, with the common names field dodder, golden dodder, large-seeded alfalfa dodder, yellow dodder and prairie dodder, is a parasitic plant which belongs to the family Convolvulaceae. It was formerly classified in the family Cuscutaceae.[+]
Cuscuta campestris, also known as field dodder, is a parasitic plant that belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. It is an annual vine that obtains its nutrients by attaching itself to host plants.
In Qatar, Cuscuta campestris has been found to be a common weed in agricultural fields and urban areas. Studies have reported its presence in various regions of the country, including Doha and Al Rayyan. The plant has been observed to parasitize a range of hosts, including crops such as alfalfa, wheat, and vegetables, as well as wild plants like desert grasses and shrubs.
Research conducted in Qatar has focused on the plant's distribution, host range, and potential impact on agriculture. Findings suggest that Cuscuta campestris can cause significant yield losses in infested crops, highlighting the need for effective management strategies to control its spread.
Cuscuta campestris was observed parasitizing alfalfa in Trainah gardens and on Green Circles in Irkhaya Farms, where it formed masses around grass tufts and spread on fields. The plant produced flowers, which were observed in March and June, and fruits, which were seen in February and June. It was also found on fleabane daisy and other hosts. The dodder was present in various areas, including southern Qatar, south-western Qatar, and Doha, with observations made from March 2014 to June 2016. The plant's growth and spread were documented at different times of the year, indicating its ability to thrive in Qatar's environment. Its presence was noted in multiple locations, suggesting its adaptability to different hosts and environments. Overall, Cuscuta campestris appears to be a widespread and prolific species in Qatar.
www.theplantlist.org
QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.