Are GMOs creating disastrous superweed problem?

The Weed Science Society of America (WSSA) has issued a new fact sheet to uproot common misconceptions about “superweeds”– a catchall term used by many to describe weeds resistant to herbicides. The paper explores the truth behind two widespread fallacies.

Fallacy 1: Superweeds are a product of rampant gene transfer from genetically modified field crops. The truth:

WSSA scientists say gene transfer from some crops to certain weed species can happen, but it has not been a factor in the development of herbicide resistance across large acreages. The true culprit, they say, is overreliance on a single class of herbicides, resulting in selection for weeds that can survive the products in that class.

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Fallacy 2: Superweeds have supercharged abilities to muscle out competing plants in new and more aggressive ways. The truth:

Many believe today’s herbicide-resistant superweeds exhibit properties unlike anything we’ve ever seen before. But WSSA scientists say bully-like weed behavior isn’t new. In the absence of herbicides, resistant weeds are no more competitive or ecologically damaging than their non-resistant relatives.

Read full, original article: Weed scientists uproot common “superweed” myths