The role of the mottled water hyacinth weevil (neochetina eichhorniaes on biological control of water hyacinth in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipesi has become one of the most obnoxious freshwater weeds \~ith numerous widespread infestations occurring in the North Western. Central and Southern provinces in Sri Lanka. Water hyacinth competes with native plants and phytoplankton in aquatic system for essential nutrients and space due to its rapid grow tho Further it clogs waterways thereby restricting recreational activities including fishing and navigation. lowers dissolved oxygen in water and limits light penetration due to the formation of an extensive network of mats.