Salviniaceae

This weed is primarily found in stagnant or slow-moving water bodies, lakes, and ponds. In an agronomic context, Salviniaceae pose a significant threat to land reclamation systems, irrigation canals, and rice paddies. The rapid proliferation of these plants leads to the quick overgrowth of water surfaces, which blocks water flow to agricultural lands and disrupts the operation of hydraulic engineering structures.

The biology of Salvinia is characterized by an extremely high rate of vegetative reproduction. Even a small fragment of the stem is capable of forming a new colony in a very short time, covering large areas of the water surface. Under favorable temperature conditions and high nutrient levels in the water, these plants form a dense carpet that prevents sunlight from penetrating into the water column.

The harmfulness of Salviniaceae lies in creating obstacles for water use and deteriorating the oxygen regime of water bodies, which leads to eutrophication. In rice farming, this weed competes with the crop for nutrients and creates an unfavorable microclimate for rice growth, reducing overall field productivity and complicating mechanized cultivation processes.

Control measures involve a comprehensive approach. Agronomic methods focus on periodic mechanical cleaning of canals and the regulation of hydrological regimes. Chemical control is restricted due to strict regulations regarding herbicide use in aquatic environments; specialized glyphosate-based formulations (in zones permitted for edge-of-water application) or contact herbicides approved for aquaculture use are employed.