The Water-fern Salvinia molesta in the Sepik River, Papua New Guinea

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Since 1977 the Sepik River backwaters between Pagwi and Angoram in Papua New Guinea have become increasingly covered by the exotic water-fern S. molesta. By May 1979, Salvinia covered about 80 km2. H2O chemical analyses for dissolved substances give no evidence that nutrients in the Sepik River and lagoons might become limiting enough to affect the Salvinia population. The physical impact of the plant is reflected in the decline of fisheries for saltfish tilapia (Sarotherodon mossambicus), crocodile hunting, collection of sago-palm and in the slowing down or complete elimination of H2O transport. A management program was formulated for elimination of the weed from Sepik River backwaters.