Although the highly invasive water hyacinth was introduced into
Florida over 30 years ago, the aquatic plant hasn’t been nearly
as successful as it has been in other places such as Lake
Victoria, South Africa. Despite this, Florida’s weather and
conditions are optimal for sufficient growth of water hyacinth.
The warm climate, high nutrient and light environment is very
conducive to water hyacinth growth. Researchers Volin and Soti
from the University of Connecticut and Florida Atlantic
University sought to test various nutrient and herbivory levels
versus water hyacinth growth to see if the specific amount of
nutrients and plant removal found in Florida had a negative
impact on the water hyacinth. Soti and Volin found that water
hyacinth are able to survive under low amounts of plant removal
no matter the nutrient level. This suggests the most effective
method of removal of the plant is a high level of herbivory.
This research gives great insight into future control of the
highly invasive plant. Biological Co