@Article{M-10090,
AUTHOR = {Madrewar, Shivam and Dhinwa, Sangeta and Gumphekar, Atharva and Deshmukh, Aastha and Sarve, Sayli},
TITLE = {Biological Control of Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) using Neochetina spp. in the Panchaganga River, Kolhapur and its impact},
JOURNAL = {Scientific Research Journal of Environment, Earth and Physical Science},
VOLUME = {2},
YEAR = {2024},
NUMBER = {2},
ARTICLE-NUMBER = {M-10090},
URL = {https://isrdo.org/journal/SRJEEP/currentissue/biological-control-of-water-hyacinth-eichhornia-crassipes-using-neochetina-spp-in-the-panchaganga-river-kolhapur-and-its-impact},
ISSN = {2584-0614},
ABSTRACT = {The biological management
of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) through Neochetina spp. was
studied in the Panchaganga River, Kolhapur, India, where extensive infestations
threatened ecological balance and human activities. Five sites along the river
were monitored for six months after the introduction of Neochetina weevils.
Initial water hyacinth cover averaged 85%, declining to 51% post-intervention,
reflecting a 40% reduction. Water quality parameters showed significant
improvements, with dissolved oxygen levels increasing by 25% and a slight pH
rise indicating favorable ecosystem conditions. Biodiversity evaluations
indicated a rise in species diversity indices and the resurgence of native fish
species. Statistical analysis confirmed a strong correlation (R² = 0.85)
between weevil density and biomass reduction. Visual and spatial analyses
supported these findings, showing reduced hyacinth density and improved river
navigability. This research demonstrates Neochetina spp. as effective agents
for sustainable water hyacinth management, emphasizing their role in restoring
ecological health in impacted river systems.},
DOI = {}
}