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Eichhornia crassipes control in the largest Portuguese natural freshwater lagoon 1
Author(s) -
Laranjeira C. M.,
Nadais G.
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
eppo bulletin
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.327
H-Index - 36
eISSN - 1365-2338
pISSN - 0250-8052
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-2338.2008.01268.x
Subject(s) - eichhornia crassipes , hyacinth , aquatic plant , environmental science , aquatic ecosystem , water quality , habitat , ecology , macrophyte , biology , paleontology
Pateira de Fermentelos is one of the largest natural freshwater lagoons in the Iberian Peninsula (approximately 529 ha). It is an important and extensive humid area integrated in the Special Protection Area (SPA) Ria de Aveiro (PTZPE0004) due to its ornithological importance and habitat typology. Water hyacinth ( Eichhornia crassipes ) is a major factor threatening the environmental and ecological balance of the lagoon and associated ecosystems. In recent years, the water hyacinth has spread over more than 50% of the lagoon surface, thus contributing to the degradation of the ecological, economical and social conditions and, ultimately, the lagoon system of Ria de Aveiro. In December 2006 the Municipal Authority of Águeda, in association with other public entities, initiated the mechanical removal (using an aquatic‐harvester) of the extensive water hyacinth mats that covered the lagoon, with the intention of improving the system in a sustainable manner. Since the beginning of this action, the aquatic‐harvester has removed more than 15 500 m 3 of vegetal mats from the lagoon, which, in accordance with the current legislation, has been transported to an old inactive quarry site. At present the lagoon water is free from this invasive exotic plant, hence allowing navigation and the maintenance of traditional activities such as fishing and boating. The monitoring of the lagoon water quality is in progress in several locations, to monitor the system evolution, and develop actions and research aiming for sustainable management of the Pateira.