The biological control of aquatic weeds in South Africa: Current status and future challenges
BACKGROUND: Aquatic ecosystems in South Africa are prone to invasion by several invasive alien aquatic weeds, most notably, Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms-Laub. (Pontederiaceae) (water hyacinth); Pistia stratiotes L. (Araceae) (water lettuce); Salvinia molesta D.S. Mitch. (Salviniaceae) (salvinia); Myriophyllum aquaticum (Vell. Conc.) Verd. (parrot's feather); and Azolla filiculoides Lam. (Azollaceae) (red water fern). OBJECTIVE: We review the biological control programme on waterweeds in South Africa. RESULTS: Our review shows significant reductions in the extent of invasions, and a return on biodiversity and socio-economic benefits through the use of this method. These studies provide justification for the control of widespread and emerging freshwater invasive alien aquatic weeds in South Africa. CONCLUSIONS: The long-term management of alien aquatic vegetation relies on the correct implementation of biological control for those species already in the country and the prevention of other species entering South Africa.
| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Digital revista |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI)
2017
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| Online Access: | http://www.scielo.org.za/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0006-82412017000200007 |
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