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kariba-weed
Scientific Name: Salvinia molesta
Family: Salviniaceae
Category: Fern
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Annual, Perennial
Other Names:
Salvinia molesta: Giant Salvinia or Kariba Weed
Salvinia molesta, commonly known as giant salvinia or Kariba weed, is a free-floating aquatic fern recognized for its rapid growth and potential to become invasive.
Considerations for Pets
- This plant is often found in aquatic environments and may be present in water features or ponds accessible to pets.
- Dense mats of this fern can form on the water's surface.
Considerations for Children
- Giant salvinia is often found in aquatic environments and may be present in water features or ponds accessible to children.
- Dense mats of this fern can form on the water's surface.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Salvinia molesta Mitchell
- Family: Salviniaceae
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Taxonomic Rank: Species
- Synonyms/Alternative Names: Salvinia molesta D. S. Mitch., Salvinia molesta Marshall
Common Names
- Giant Salvinia
- Kariba Weed
- Water Fern
- Water Spangles
- African Payal
- African Pyle
- Aquarium Watermoss
- Koi Kandy
- Water Velvet
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to South America, specifically south-east Brazil.
- Has been introduced to various tropical, subtropical, and warmer temperate regions worldwide.
- Notably infested a large portion of Lake Kariba, from which it derives one of its common names.
- Found in Botswana, Zimbabwe, New Zealand, and Japan (Hyogo and Okinawa Prefs. in the past).
Ecological Role
- Considered an invasive species in many regions.
- Listed on the Federal Noxious Weed list.
- Can invade most types of aquatic systems.
- Clogs waterways and irrigation equipment, reduces water flow, and impedes navigation, fishing, and recreational activities.
- Provides a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
- Can grow at an alarming rate, doubling in numbers in a short period.
Morphological Characteristics
- A green, mat-forming water weed.
- Leaves are green to yellow-green, oval-shaped, and arranged in pairs, with dense hairs on the upper surface.
- Can grow up to 30 cm long and 5 cm wide.
- Perennial, heterosporous herb.
- Free-floating aquatic plant.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- The plant has been investigated as a potential feed source for herbivorous fish, such as tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus).
Additional Information
- The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) provides help and information on Salvinia molesta.