Evaluation of Arzama densa as an Aid in the Control of Water Hyacinth in Louisiana12

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Abstract
Water hyacinth, Eichornia crassipes Solms, is an introduced weed which grows in canals, bayous, and ponds in Louisiana. Most control efforts have been with herbicides. Larvae of the noctuid Anama densa walker were found to feed on water hyacinth, causing some plants to die and preventing development of seed heads on others. Young larvae feed on the epidermis of leaves, stems, and crown. Older larvae bore into the crowns, stolons, and leaf petioles. Feeding on the inside the crown caused a loss of apical dominance and subsequent development of excessive numbers of lateral buds. There is a possibility that this insect can be used as an aid in reducing populations of this noxious weed where it is adversely affecting navigation and fish habitats.

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