Abstract Detail

Ecological Section

Blair, Charles E. [1].

Invasive Aquatic and Riparian Weeds and Mosquitoes; Challenges, Successes, and Importance of On-going Studies.

The adverse effects of invasive aquatic and riparian weeds on water quality; hydrology, native plant communities, and wildlife habitat and their consequences for mosquito control efforts, public health and nuisance problems, have been often implied, but could be better articulated. This presentation will present some of these relationships and highlight collaborative activities among vector and weed control agencies. Invasive aquatic and riparian weeds result in several adverse changes in these settings. Displacement of native flora degrades habitat for fauna that feed on mosquito larvae and pupae. The use of biorational larvicides, some derived from bacterial sources that do not harm this fauna supplements the effectiveness of their predation, which can reduce or eliminate the necessity of aerial adulticide application. There are situations where the density of invasive flora has been shown to interfere with application of these agents. Mosquito breed in standing water, which can include still-water natural areas, such as ponds, and small lakes and also moving water areas streams and tidal areas with changing levels which leave isolated standing water areas. Manmade sources include landscaping, irrigation canals, ponds, storm drain holding areas, and wastewater recharge basins. Examples of specific problems in particular settings will be described: for still-water, Ludwigia spp ; for estuarine; Spartina spp.; and riparian, Arundo donax. Successful projects that can be applied elsewhere; lessons that can be learned from unsuccessful activities; and the need for continuing investigations will be discussed.

1 - 176 Alcor Ave, Lompoc, CA, 93436, USA

Keywords:
Aquatic plants
Weed control
Mosquitoes.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper:Papers for Sections
Session: 9
Location: Salon 17/18/The Shaw Conference Centre
Date: Monday, July 27th, 2015
Time: 11:15 AM
Number: 9011
Abstract ID:632
Candidate for Awards:None