AGRICULTURE Victoria is on the lookout for water hyacinth following a seizure of the state-prohibited weed in Melbourne.<\/p>\n
Biosecurity officers from the agency recently= seized examples of the aquatic weed (Eichhornia crassipes), which poses a serious threat to Victorian waterways, at the Oakleigh Sunday Market.<\/p>\n
However, the seller had purchased the plants from another stall at the same market, so the total number sold is unknown.<\/p>\n
Agriculture Victoria biosecurity manager Angela Constantine said the sale of the weed created the potential for it to spread throughout Victoria, which could have economic and environmental impacts on a large scale.<\/p>\n
\u201cWater hyacinth is one of the world\u2019s worst aquatic weeds.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt poses a serious threat if given the opportunity to spread into our waterways, so we need to rapidly and comprehensively respond to such incidents.\u201d<\/p>\n
Water hyacinth is native to Brazil and is extremely invasive. It can form dense mats across waterways, rendering them unusable for irrigation, transport and recreation.<\/p>\n
Infestations of water hyacinth can also kill fish and other aquatic life by preventing light from penetrating the water and by reducing oxygen levels.<\/p>\n
\u201cAlthough water hyacinth may appear an attractive plant in your backyard pond, the impacts it can have beyond your property are detrimental,\u201d Ms Constantine said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Victorian Government takes responsibility for the safe treatment, removal and disposal of water hyacinth plants, at no cost to the land owner.<\/p>\n
\u201cPlease contact us to have this weed removed and play your part in ensuring Victoria\u2019s biosecurity.\u201d<\/p>\n
Water hyacinth can be identified by its distinctive mauve flower and bulbous spongy stems. If you believe that you may have inadvertently purchased a water hyacinth plant from this market or elsewhere, phone Agriculture Victoria on 136 186.<\/p>\n
Do not attempt to remove and\/or dispose of the plants yourself. Agriculture Victoria will remove the plants safely and free of charge.<\/p>\n