Perspectives on submersed macrophyte invasions and declines

Abstract

Invasions and declines of submersed macrophyte communities have been reported worldwide. In general, factors contributing to invasions are most poorly understood. Factors potentially contributing to macrophyte declines are numerous, and include reduced irradiance, nutrient depletion, parasites and pathogens, toxin accumulation, animal damage, climatic fluctuations, and other factors. Attention to these dynamics in submersed macrophyte communities is of more than academic interest, since coordination of macrophyte management policies and procedures with natural controls could improve the efficiency of macrophyte management efforts. Indeed, there is some evidence that intense management may prolong the dominance of invasive exotic submersed macrophyte species. As part of the International Symposium on the Biology and Management of Aquatic Plants, held in July 1992 in Daytona Beach, FL, a workshop was conducted to better understand invasion and decline phenomena, from a regional perspective, within the context of aquatic plant management. © 1994 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.