Ecology of Eichhornia crassipes and Pistia stratiotes in the oriental maritime region of Togo
The presence of Pistia stratiotes (Araceae) and Eichhornia crassipes (Pontederiaceae) on water bodies is increasing in the entire maritime region of Togo. P. stratiotes is the most widespread species and covers most parts of this area. Ecological conditions of waters in this region are much diversified. However, this study has shown that nitrogen under its ammoniac form, low salinity, conductivity and hardness values of waters favoured installation and spread of P. stratiotes and E. crassipes. As it is very difficult to influence conductivity and salinity of these water bodies, a solution would be to diminish their nitrogen and phosphorus contents, as these elements are essential to macrophytes’ metabolism. To achieve this, participation and information of human populations are essential for an efficient management.
Sources
Akpavi S, Batawila K, Djaneye-Boundjou G, Afidegnon D, de Foucault B, Bouchet P (2005) Contribution à la connaissance de l’écologie d’Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms-Laub. (Pontederiaceae) et de Pistia stratiotes L. (Araceae) dans la région maritime orientale du Togo. Acta Botanica Gallica. 152(3), 269-280.