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giant salvinia
Scientific Name: Salvinia biloba
Family: Salviniaceae
Category: Fern
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Giant Salvinia (Salvinia molesta)
Giant salvinia, scientifically known as Salvinia molesta, is a free-floating aquatic fern recognized for its rapid growth and potential to form dense mats on the water's surface.
Considerations for Pets
- This is an aquatic plant, so it will not typically be in areas pets frequent.
- The dense mats formed by this plant can be a hazard to aquatic animals.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Salvinia molesta D.S. Mitchell
- Family: Salviniaceae (Water Fern Family)
- Common Names: Giant salvinia, kariba weed, African pyle, aquarium watermoss, koi kandy, water velvet, water fern, water spangles.
- Synonyms: Salvinia auriculata (Preferred Scientific Name by some sources)
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to southeastern Brazil and northern Argentina (South America).
- Now found in various locations worldwide, including the southern United States (e.g., Texas, North Carolina, Louisiana), Australia, and New Zealand.
- Prefers slow-moving, quiet water environments.
Ecological Role
- Classified as an invasive species in many regions.
- Forms dense floating mats that block sunlight and reduce oxygen levels in the water, negatively impacting native plants and aquatic life (e.g., fish).
- Its import or transport between States in the U.S. without a permit is illegal under the Plant Protection Act, as it's listed as a Federal Noxious Weed.
Morphological Characteristics
- Free-floating aquatic fern lacking true roots.
- Plantlets consist of a horizontal stem producing two floating leaves and one submerged, root-like leaf.
- Floating leaves are oval to oblong, ranging from green to gold to brown, and measure approximately 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) in length.
- Leaves are buoyant and covered in hairs.
- Older plants can become compressed into chains.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Subject to biological control efforts using salvinia-eating weevils.
- Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) has been observed consuming giant salvinia.
Quirky Facts
- The name "kariba weed" comes from its infestation of a large portion of the Kariba Reservoir.
- Giant salvinia reproduces vegetatively, meaning small stem fragments can create new mats, allowing it to spread rapidly.
Further Information
- Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health
- APHIS 81󈞏� PEST ALERT
- University of Nevada Cooperative Extension
- Texas Parks and Wildlife