Ecology, Environment and Conservation Paper

BIOLOGY AND CONTROL OF PARROTFEATHER (MYRIOPHYLLUM AQUATICUM) IN PORTUGAL

I. Moreira, A. Monteira and T. Ferreira

Abstract

A review of the distribution of parrotfeather [Myriophyllum aquaticum (Veil.) Verde.] in Portugal is presented. Studies concerning its growth and the influence of environmental factors in its development are summarised. Control measures and the perception of water resource managers on the damage caused by it are related. Trials for the evaluation of herbicide efficacy and associated environmental impacts are reported. The preferences of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) for parrotfeather relative to other aquatic species is evaluated. Finally, the different control methods for parrotfeather are compared.