A novel approach to aquatic weed control and habitat restoration using biodegradable jute matting
Caffrey, Joseph Millane, Michael Evers, Stephanie Moran, Helen Butler, Martin
Caffrey, Joseph
Millane, Michael
Evers, Stephanie
Moran, Helen
Butler, Martin
Publication Date
2010-06-01
Type
Article
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Citation
Caffrey, Joseph; Millane, Michael; Evers, Stephanie; Moran, Helen; Butler, Martin (2010). A novel approach to aquatic weed control and habitat restoration using biodegradable jute matting. Aquatic Invasions 5 (2), 123-129
Abstract
This technical paper presents results from pilot field trials conducted on the novel use of a biodegradable jute material to eradicate the highly invasive aquatic macrophyte Lagarosiphon major Ridley from Lough Corrib, Ireland. The results demonstrate the ability of the jute material to comprehensively kill L. major and to restore native macrophyte communities to areas of the lake that were previously overgrown with this priority invasive species. To date, eight indigenous plant species (four charophytes and four angiosperms) have been recorded growing through the loose-weave jute fabric. However, no Lagarosiphon has been recorded as doing so. This material has the potential for broader application in the management of nuisance aquatic weeds and in the restoration of native flora extirpated by these alien species.
Funder
Publisher
Regional Euro-Asian Biological Invasions Centre Oy (REABIC)
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Rights
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Ireland