Integrated control of Eichhornia crassipes by using insects and plant pathogens in Mexico

Eichhornia crassipes management by using insects and plant pathogens was carried out in a small reservoir in Mexico. The total reservoir area was 7 ha and the area covered with water hyacinth was around 3 ha. A total of 9800 insects of Neochetina eichhorniae and Neochetina bruchi were released in the reservoir. One month after insect establishment, two aspersions of Cercospora piaropi and Acremonium zonatum (fungal plant pathogens) were applied. After 2 months of the described combined biocontrol application, a fresh weight reduction of 29% was observed, as well as a diminution of 59% in the number of plants per square meter. Additional observed results were a 65% reduction in the number of green leaves per plant and 85% reduction in the number of new ramets. In a period of time of 3 months the reservoir was completely free of E. crassipes. It is believed that some other conditions contributed to E. crassipes control such as the phenological stage of plants and weather conditions.