Weed Dynamics and Adaptation in Waterlogged Soybean Cultivation Systems in Swampy Areas: A Literature Review

Abstract

The main constraints to soybean cultivation in flooded and waterlogged agroecosystems include prolonged soil saturation, reduced redox potential, and the accumulation of toxic ions, all of which adversely affect plant growth and productivity. Under anaerobic conditions, weed pressure becomes a major biotic constraint to soybean production. The composition and dominance of weeds in waterlogged systems are shaped by multiple interacting factors, including hydrological conditions, soil properties, and management practices, which collectively favour flood-tolerant weeds with adaptive traits such as aerenchyma formation, adventitious rooting, and enhanced anaerobic metabolism. This literature review synthesises current knowledge on soybean production under waterlogged conditions, plant–weed competition under hypoxia, and patterns of weed dominance in flooded systems. It further evaluates cultural, mechanical, chemical, and integrated weed management strategies in agro-swamp ecosystems, including issues related to pesticide drift and mixing between rice- and soybean-based wetlands that may increase selection pressure for herbicide resistance. The development of adaptive and integrated weed management approaches is essential to ensure sustainable soybean production in flood-prone environments. Ecologically based and time-adaptive management strategies are expected to reduce yield losses associated with climate change–induced flooding.