Invasive aquatic weed is spreading rapidly in the northeastern U.S.
Northern hydrilla: Invasive aquatic weed is spreading rapidly Earth.com
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The ecological threat of northern hydrilla
The northeastern United States is witnessing a growing environmental challenge as a notorious aquatic weed, known as northern hydrilla, expands its reach. Initially confined to the Connecticut River, recent studies have shown this invasive species is now populating multiple waterbodies across Connecticut and even reaching into Massachusetts.
The ecological threat of northern hydrilla
Northern hydrilla is known for its rapid growth, which can form dense canopies that hinder recreational activities like boating and fishing. More critically, its unchecked spread poses a significant threat to native plant and animal species. This subspecies also carries a bacterium that produces a neurotoxin linked to fatalities in bald eagles and waterfowl, highlighting its dangerous ecological impact.
Recent discoveries and the need for vigilance
Northern hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata subspecies lithuanica) remained undocumented outside the Connecticut River until 2022. However, by the end of 2023, this invasive weed had been detected in six additional locations. These sites are frequently near boat-launch ramps, indicating a potential route for the spread of northern hydrilla.
The crucial fight against northern hydrilla
Given the situation, Foley emphasized the importance of research into how angling tournaments might contribute to the spread of hydrilla. “Management efforts should prioritize early detection and prevention strategies, such as increased monitoring at boat-launch ramps and enhanced education for boaters to mitigate the spread of this invasive species.”
More about northern hydrilla
Northern hydrilla, also known as Hydrilla verticillata, is a submersed aquatic plant that has garnered attention due to its invasive nature and rapid growth in freshwater environments. Originally native to Asia, it has spread across various regions including North America and Europe, thriving in lakes, rivers, and canals.
Characteristics
This plant is characterized by its dense, mat-like growth which can dominate water bodies, blocking sunlight and depleting oxygen levels, thus outcompeting native species and altering aquatic ecosystems.
Management of northern hydrilla
Due to its aggressive growth and resilience, managing hydrilla often involves a combination of mechanical harvesting, chemical herbicides, and biological control, such as introducing specific fish species that feed on it. Despite control efforts, hydrilla remains a challenging and costly invasive species to manage in affected water bodies.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 14: Life Below Water | Target 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, in particular from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution | Indicator 14.1.1: Index of coastal eutrophication and floating plastic debris density |
| SDG 15: Life on Land | Target 15.8: By 2020, introduce measures to prevent the introduction and significantly reduce the impact of invasive alien species on land and water ecosystems and control or eradicate the priority species | Indicator 15.8.1: Proportion of countries adopting relevant national legislation and adequately resourcing the prevention or control of invasive alien species |
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 14: Life Below Water
- SDG 15: Life on Land
Explanation:
The article discusses the ecological threat posed by the invasive species northern hydrilla, which affects both aquatic and non-aquatic plant and animal species. This aligns with SDG 14, which focuses on conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas, and marine resources. Additionally, the article mentions the impact of northern hydrilla on native plant and animal species, highlighting the connection to SDG 15, which aims to protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- Target 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, in particular from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution.
- Target 15.8: By 2020, introduce measures to prevent the introduction and significantly reduce the impact of invasive alien species on land and water ecosystems and control or eradicate the priority species.
Explanation:
The article highlights the spread of northern hydrilla, an invasive aquatic weed, which can cause ecological damage and hinder recreational activities. This aligns with Target 14.1 of SDG 14, which focuses on reducing marine pollution and preventing the introduction of harmful substances into marine ecosystems. Additionally, the article emphasizes the need to prevent the spread of invasive species like northern hydrilla, connecting to Target 15.8 of SDG 15, which aims to reduce the impact of invasive alien species on land and water ecosystems.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Indicator 14.1.1: Index of coastal eutrophication and floating plastic debris density
- Indicator 15.8.1: Proportion of countries adopting relevant national legislation and adequately resourcing the prevention or control of invasive alien species
Explanation:
The article does not explicitly mention any indicators related to SDG 14 or SDG 15. However, the indicators mentioned above can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. Indicator 14.1.1 measures the index of coastal eutrophication and floating plastic debris density, which can help assess the reduction of marine pollution. Indicator 15.8.1 measures the proportion of countries adopting relevant legislation and resources for preventing or controlling invasive alien species, which can indicate progress in reducing the impact of invasive species on ecosystems.
4. SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 14: Life Below Water | Target 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, in particular from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution | Indicator 14.1.1: Index of coastal eutrophication and floating plastic debris density |
| SDG 15: Life on Land | Target 15.8: By 2020, introduce measures to prevent the introduction and significantly reduce the impact of invasive alien species on land and water ecosystems and control or eradicate the priority species | Indicator 15.8.1: Proportion of countries adopting relevant national legislation and adequately resourcing the prevention or control of invasive alien species |
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Fuente: earth.com
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