Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium) is a weed in many agricultural crops. Due to tropane alkaloids, the species is considered highly toxic, posing considerable risk when consumed. Contamination of harvested crops with tropane alkaloids originates from the presence of jimsonweed in the fields at the time of harvest. Its seeds and plant parts are harvested along with the crop, leading to contamination. Control measures for jimsonweed are urgently needed to ensure safe and high-quality feed and food.
The StopDatura project focuses on raising awareness, developing control measures for jimsonweed, and minimizing contamination of harvested crops with tropane alkaloids.
More information about the StopDatura project
Soybean cultivation in some regions of Austria is particularly affected by jimsonweed. Analysis of drone images has revealed infestations ranging from a few plants to several hundred jimsonweed plants per hectare.
Follak S., Reiter E., Riegler-Nurscher P., Treiblmeier M. (2024): Stechapfelerkennung mittels Drohnen. Der Pflanzenarzt 77(6-7), 14–15.