Biological control of water hyacinth: early observations

Abstract

Water hyacinth, Eichhomiae crassipes, is a water weed that comes from South America. It has spread to most tropical countries as an aquarium or ornamental plant. This weed forms dense floating masses in lakes, lagoons and waterways. It prevents the use of the water for recreation and transport; it chokes pumping stations; it alters the habits of fish and fishermen; it provides a surface for breeding of disease carrying insects like the mosquito. An article in Harvest, Volume 10, No. 2 described the water hyacinth, its spread within Papua New Guinea and methods of controlling it. In this article we give the latest information on the spread of water hyacinth, and outline the first steps in an attempt at biological control of this weed.