Water Hyacinth is an ornamental aquatic plant, introduced to India by British in 1900s. Now if you think any lakes overpopulated by weeds, mostly it is by these invasive plants. These are free floating plants and with green glossy thick leave and 6 petals lavender colored flowers. These can double their population in a fortnight!
Most of the birds lay eggs on these leaves thinking that can support the eggs, but it does not! If not controlled, Hyacinth will cover lakes and blocks water flow, blocks sun light and reduce oxygen in water thus killing aquatics and imbalances natural lifecycle in manmade lakes. Kerala backwaters, Bellandur Lake are notable examples.
Per a survey conducted by Bangalore University, Bellandur Lake contains highest level of heavy metals. This is due the Hyacinth has a capacity to absorb Cr, Cd, Co, Hg and Ni.
If utilized judiciously industrial water pollution can be controlled. This improves nitrification of soil. These are used for cattle food, bags, ropes made from fibers and biogas production.
These can be controlled by herbicides or plant shredding machine and BBMP is spending huge tax payer’s money to conserve the lakes.
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