This review surveys weed-seed detection in plant quarantine, from morphology and germination to DNA-based tools. Dormancy, resemblance to crop seed and zero-tolerance thresholds make detection difficult. Molecular methods may reduce ambiguity, but require reference libraries, performance validation and workable port-of-entry workflows.
Key findings
- Countries use different phytosanitary-certification strategies within global and regional frameworks. Traditional methods remain necessary but struggle with dormancy and look-alike seeds. Molecular tools can confirm identity without germination, while facing cost, DNA quality, reference-database and contamination constraints.
Why this matters globally
Global trade accelerates invasive-seed movement. Tiered detection that combines morphology with DNA has implications for food security, biodiversity and quarantine cost.
Thai researcher contribution
A Naresuan University coauthor contributed to an international synthesis linking Thai biological and molecular expertise with cross-border biosecurity.
Limitations to consider
The abstract reports no search protocol, eligibility criteria, quality appraisal or PRISMA flow, so this is best treated as a narrative review. Standardised comparisons of sensitivity, specificity, time and cost are absent, and regulation differs by country.