Title: Biological control of water hyacinth: an effective solution to preserve water bodies
Introduction :
Water hyacinth, native to South America, is considered the world’s worst invasive aquatic plant. It proliferates in nutrient-rich waters, forming dense and impenetrable mats that disrupt nautical activities, fishing and aquatic biodiversity. However, an effective weapon has been found to control this invasive plant: biological control. In this article, we will explore how this method has been successfully used to combat water hyacinth and preserve water bodies.
Biological control with Megamelus scutellaris:
To combat water hyacinth, the Rhodes University Biological Control Center (BCC) has established a biological control program using the insect Megamelus scutellaris. These insects, a type of grasshopper, are natural predators specific to water hyacinth. They reproduce quickly and are capable of causing significant damage to the plant. Their mode of action is to pierce the tissues of the plant, causing rot and thus reducing its buoyancy. In addition to this, insects prevent seed production, thereby reducing the water hyacinth’s ability to reproduce.
Results and positive impact:
Thanks to this biological control program, the results are impressive. At Hartbeespoort Dam, South Africa, water hyacinth cover has been reduced to less than 5% thanks to Megamelus scutellaris, for the third year in a row. The insects are raised in large numbers in specialized facilities and then released onto infested bodies of water. Satellite breeding stations were also created, with the participation of local volunteers, to increase the effectiveness of the program.
The advantages of biological control:
Biological control has many advantages over chemical control methods. It is environmentally friendly, not affecting other species and not polluting water bodies. Additionally, it is sustainable, as the insects reproduce naturally, providing long-term control of water hyacinth. By reducing the water hyacinth population, biological control also helps to preserve the biodiversity of water bodies, by promoting the return of native species.
Conclusion :
Biological control with Megamelus scutellaris has proven to be an effective and environmentally friendly solution for controlling water hyacinth. Thanks to this program, bodies of water can return to their natural state and water activities can resume normally. This approach offers a sustainable alternative to chemical control methods, thus contributing to the preservation of aquatic biodiversity. It is important to continue to support and promote biological control to preserve our precious bodies of water.