Aquatic plants serve a variety of uses in a water system, some of which are vital to the overall health of the aquatic environment. There are numerous aquatic plants that grow in farm dams, streams and waterways and fortunately most are rarely a problem. However, when water becomes rich in nutrients, aquatic plants can grow vigorously to a point where they become a nuisance or are considered a weed.
Aquatic plants become a problem when they:
- blanket the entire water surface, causing oxygen depletion – this may destroy the under-surface ecosystem and kill aquatic species
- as introduced species, compete with native species and reduce biodiversity
- impact on the aquatic habitat of bird species and cause them to relocate
- interfere with commercial and recreational activities
- cause blockages or impede water intake to pumping equipment – mesh cages may have to be made to house the foot valve away from the weed
- contaminate and taint drinking water supplies
- cause pungent odours
- accumulate debris
- impede the access of stock to water
- interfere with flow in irrigation channels
- increase transpiration rates
For further information about aquatic plants contact: