Distribution and host specificity ofStriga asiaticaand S.hermonthicaon cereals in Tanzania—a preliminary study

Striga species (Scrophulariaceae) are important endemic pests of cereals including maize, sorghum, rice and millet grown in the semi‐arid tropical and equatorial regions of Tanzania. The distribution of Striga species of economic importance, i.e. S. asiatica, S. hermonthica and S. forbesii were mapped in Tanzania. Studies on the specificity of S. asiatica and S. hermonthica to cereals have revealed differential responses by varieties of three cereal crops. Pearl millet was least infested by both Striga species whereas both maize and sorghum were susceptible. However maize varieties were less infested by both Striga species compared with sorghum varieties. Sorghum variety Serena showed partial resistance to the two Striga species.