Salvinia (kariba weed)
| Botanical Name | Salvinia molesta |
|---|---|
| Family | Salviniaceae |
| Origin | S. American |
Identification
The common name for this plant is kariba weed though most people call it salvinia. Kariba weed is a small floating aquatic fern forming dense mats. Elliptic (rounded at both ends, widest in middle), often overlapping leaves, 25 x 20 mm, light or brown-green and folded with upper surface densely covered in hairs. Notifiable Pest Plant.Habitats
Floating on ponds, drains and small lakes and still waters in swamps. Has been frequent in Auckland e.g. Western Springs now eradicated. Should be watched for.Impact to Biota and Ecosystems
Forms extensive dense mats seriously degrading the natural character of a waterbody and shading species underneath.Dispersal Routes, Vectors, Infestation Sources
Fragments break off and can be transported accidentally to other waterbodies. Has been dispersed in the past by disposal of garden pond material and is now a Notifiable Pest Plant.Management
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Management |
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| Physical Control |
Remove plants. |
| Disposal |
Dispose of away from waterbodies. |
| Chemical Control |
Paraquat (Gramoxone) or Diquat (Reglone) - see label rates. Water right required. |
|
Biological Control |
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| Recommended Approach | |
Further Comment
Salvinia is a Notifiable Pest Plant and landowners and occupiers have a legal obligation to report the presence of this plant to AgriQuaility and/or your local Pest Plant Officer who will arrange for the necessary eradication work. It is an offence for anyone to grow this plant. Notifiable Pest Plants are deemed to pose an intolerable threat to NZ and must be eradicated. The Government pays for and organises all eradication work needed on this plant.
This plant is prohibited from propagation, sale and distribution within New Zealand!