Water hyacinth is often seen as a serious problem in lakes and rivers around the world. The fast-growing invasive plant can clog waterways, block sunlight, reduce oxygen levels, and harm native wildlife. Managing large infestations is difficult and expensive, especially in tropical and subtropical regions where the plant spreads quickly. Now, researchers are exploring whether
At first glance, using herbicides to control aquatic weeds might seem like an efficient solution. But emerging science shows that these chemicals often come with serious unintended consequences for the environment. A recent report from Beyond Pesticides reveals that a new class of herbicides containing florpyrauxifen-benzyl (FPX) —designed to mimic natural hormones—may be threatening non-target
The article “The Most Vulnerable Fish Species in U.S. Rivers Today” highlights several fish species facing significant threats in American rivers due to factors such as habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, and invasive species. Key species discussed include: American Eel: Once abundant in eastern U.S. rivers, their populations have declined due to migration barriers like
Safety & Maintenance Seminar Friday, May 16, 2025 Registration Opens 8:00 a.m.; Seminar 8:30 – 3 p.m. Village of North Prairie Community Center Hall Safety Training; Chad Lese, Aquarius Systems Equipment Maintenance; Chad Lese, Aquarius Systems Aquatic Plant Identification; Arthur Watkinson, WI DNR WY-20-23 Update; Madi Johansen, WI DNR Case Study; Dakota Koepp, Lake Pewaukee
Lakes and wetlands across the United States are facing a big problem — the loss of important aquatic plants. One example is Lake Mattamuskeet in North Carolina, where underwater plants have almost disappeared. This loss is hurting the lake’s health and the many birds that depend on it. Aquatic plants are very important for keeping
Water hyacinth, one of the most invasive aquatic plants, poses serious threats to waterbodies across India, including Pashan Lake in Pune and Powai Lake in Mumbai. As municipal authorities struggle to manage these infestations, the use of herbicides such as glyphosate is being considered as a cheaper and quicker solution. However, applying glyphosate to control
A new invasive type of water hyacinth, Salvinia spp., has been discovered in Lake Victoria. It reproduces rapidly, doubling its biomass within 8 days due to high nutrient levels caused by human activities such as improper waste disposal and deforestation. Over 36 tons have already been removed, but the plant continues to spread, threatening fish
The Okanagan Basin Water Board (OBWB) is raising concerns over the use of two newly registered aquatic chemicals in British Columbia—ProcellaCOR FX, an herbicide for invasive weed control, and a potash-based water treatment chemical. The OBWB strongly opposes the application of these or any other chemicals in Okanagan waters, citing risks to drinking water safety.
A unique weed harvesting machine, described by its skipper as something out of Waterworld, is helping restore Lake Horowhenua (Punahau). The contraption, part boat and part tractor, moves slowly across the lake, using paddle steamer-like wheels and sharp teeth to cut and collect up to ten tonnes of aquatic weeds daily. Built in the U.S.
Lake Victoria, the second largest freshwater lake in the world, is an essential resource for the people of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. It provides food, clean water, hydroelectric power, and transportation. However, the lake faces a major challenge due to the spread of water hyacinth, an invasive plant that grows quickly and forms thick mats