Explore the Biochemical Mechanisms of Herbicides And Their Impact on Weed Physiology In Potato (Solanumtuberosum L)

Potato (Solanumtuberosum L.) is an important food crop cultivated globally, but its yield potential is severely affected by weed infestation, particularly during the early stages of crop establishment. Chemical weed control through herbicides remains one of the most efficient and cost-effective approaches in potato production systems. Herbicides exert their effects by interfering with vital biochemical and physiological processes in weeds, including photosynthetic electron transport, amino acid and lipid biosynthesis, respiration, and cell division. Inhibition of these essential pathways leads to visible symptoms such as growth suppression, chlorosis, tissue necrosis, and eventual weed mortality. The selectivity of herbicides between weeds and potato plants is governed by differences in uptake, translocation, metabolic detoxification, and sensitivity of target enzymes. A comprehensive understanding of herbicide modes of action and their physiological consequences is essential for improving weed management efficiency, preventing crop phytotoxicity, and mitigating the development of herbicide resistance. This review critically examines the major biochemical mechanisms of herbicides commonly used in potato cultivation and elucidates their impact on weed physiology, contributing to the development of sustainable and rational weed control strategies.