Hydrilla is an invasive species in Florida. Explain why it is considered an invasive species and how biologists try to control it in Florida ecosystems.

Question

Esther Shelton

Biology

17 February, 08:09

Hydrilla is an invasive species in Florida. Explain why it is considered an invasive species and how biologists try to control it in Florida ecosystems.

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Aaliyah Vance · Answer 1

Hydrilla or Hydrilla verticillata is one of the most devastating invasive plants in Florida waters. Hydrilla is native to southeastern Asia and was introduced in 1950s in Florida via aquarium trade.

It is considered as invasive species because it causes serious economic and environmental impacts in Florida, that includes:

develop dense canopies which reduces diversity in native plants by shading out them. it reduces concentration of dissolved oxygen and increase temperature and pH of water body. it restricts navigation and recreational activities such as swimming, fishing and boating.

Several methods used by Florida, U. S. to control Hydrilla are:

herbicide fluridone is used to control the growth of hydrilla. Biocontrol insects and fishes are introduced in Florida water. Chopping machines and mechanical harvestors are used to remove hydrilla and disposal was dumped on shore.

Hence, Hydrilla is an invasive species in Florida.