Weed biology and management under a changing climate: an integrative review

Abstract The global climate is changing, characterized by rising temperatures (projected to increase by 1.5–2 C by the end of the century) and elevated atmospheric CO 2 levels (>410 ppm), which are recognized as the primary drivers of climate change. These changes significantly affect multiple aspects of weed biology, including seed germination, seedbank dynamics, photosynthesis, root growth, phenology, and biomass production, often enhancing weed growth and competitive ability by 60% to 90% under elevated temperature and CO 2 conditions. Climate change not only modifies the biological traits of weeds but also influences the effectiveness of current management practices, including herbicide application, potentially increasing herbicide resistance. In this context, smart agriculture and artificial intelligence–based technologies offer promising tools for precise weed identification, monitoring of distribution patterns, and prediction of weed dynamics, thereby optimizing management strategies, reducing herbicide use, and improving control efficiency. Understanding climate-induced biological changes in weeds and integrating advanced technologies into management approaches are crucial for mitigating ecological threats and ensuring the sustainability of agricultural production.