The mats clog waterways and block sunlight from reaching other aquatic plants below the surface, reducing the amount of oxygen in the water. It takes only a fragment of a single plant to multiply vegetatively and produce a thick floating mat of plants (called a "sudd") on the surface of standing water (Holm and others, 1977). Why is it a Problem? It is no exaggeration to say that Giant salvinia is one of the world's worst weeds. It is a freshwater plant but can tolerate salinity levels in estuaries up to levels of about 10% that of seawater. Giant salvinia prefers tropical, sub-tropical, or warm temperatures and grows best in nutrient-rich, slow-moving waters such as ditches, canals, ponds, and lakes. The tip traps air that helps the plant float on the water surface. Its most notable feature is the rows of "hairs" with 4 branches that join in a cage-like tip. It is somewhat similar in appearance to our native duckweed ( Lemna minor), but bigger. What is Giant Salvinia? Giant salvinia is a small, free-floating aquatic fern that is native to southeastern Brazil and northeastern Argentina. Mitchell), which is considered one of the world's worst weeds, and proven strategies for controlling and minimizing its spread in the waterways of the southern United States. My statement will include background information on Giant salvinia ( Salvinia molesta D.S. One of our roles is to provide biological, geological, and hydrological expertise and research to assist State and Federal land managers in managing invasive species that pose a threat to natural ecosystems, particularly in our public parks and refuges. The USGS, which is a bureau of the Department of the Interior, conducts research to understand the interrelationships between biological systems, Earth processes, and human activities. Geological Survey, National Wetlands Research Center, based in Whiteville, North Carolina.
My name is Randy Westbrooks, and I am an Invasive Species Prevention Specialist with the U.S. Thank you, Chairman Fleming, for the opportunity to testify about current efforts to control and eradicate Giant salvinia in the MidSouth Region of the United States. Oversight Hearing on Efforts to Control and Eradicate Giant Salvinia Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife, Oceans and Insular Affairs Geological Surveyīefore the House Committee on Natural Resources Text TPWD GS to 468-311 for updates on giant salvinia (GS).Invasive Species Prevention Specialist, U.S. In Texas, transporting prohibited invasive species is punishable by a fine of up to $500 per violation.īoaters are also required to drain all water from their boat and onboard receptacles before leaving or approaching a body of fresh water in order to prevent the transfer of aquatic invasive species.īecause early detection is an important part of reducing or eliminating the presence of giant salvinia, TPWD encourages lake users to report new sightings to (409) 698-9121 or via the online report form. In addition to harming the recreational experience at lakes and damaging aquatic ecosystems, the transport of aquatic invasive species can result in legal trouble.
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