They can also host crop pests such as aphids, fungal rots and viruses.[1][2] Cost increases and yield losses occur as a result. Striga, one of the main cereal crop weeds in Sub-Saharan Africa, commonly causes yield losses of 40–100% and accounts for around $7 billion in losses annually. Around 100 million hectares of land in Sub-Saharan Africa are affected by striga.[3] Barnyard grass has been identified as a culprit in global rice yield losses and certain species have been known to mimic rice.[4][5]