The importance of glyphosate in weed management in farming is undeniable. The development of glyphosate-resistant (GR) crops plus widespread development of conservation tillage has greatly increased its use, in some cases to the virtual exclusion of alternative treatments. A consequence has been the increasing development of GR in weed species.

This book provides a very useful review for researchers into GR crops and weeds, as well as to those involved in education and extension, and decision-making in the approval of GM crops. It exemplifies the complexities and consequences of resistance development in general.

The known sources of target and non-target site resistance to glyphosate are reviewed by several authors, and detailed examples are given for key crop and weed species. Tellingly, one author suggests that we have not yet seen the full capacity of weed adaptation to glyphosate. The development of multi-herbicide resistant crops allowing a wider range of weed control is discussed but the consequences of such developments are perhaps overlooked.

The economic and husbandry consequences of GR crop and weed development are also reviewed. Modifying crop management, rotation and cultivation and increasing use of alternative herbicides with different modes of action to that of glyphosate are discussed, as is the need for improvements in extension and grower education.

The nature of such a review from 16 contributors tends to lead to some repetition, and the editor could have improved the order of contributions. However, the area is well covered and allows readers to develop their own views.