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(Photo: Pixabay)
Leiden researchers Emily Strange and Michiel Veldhuis are investigating whether there is a link between the increase in floating aquatic plants that do not originate in the Netherlands and mosquitoes. “This research should provide clarity about how we can prevent mosquitoes from spreading diseases such as malaria and what these plants mean for biodiversity.”
Invasive aquatic plants, such as certain species of duckweed, are plants that are imported from countries such as South Africa or that are grown in the Netherlands and end up in Dutch waters in this way, intentionally or unintentionally. “These plants can sometimes spread extremely quickly and cause damage to nature. It goes without saying that these types of plants are an ideally attractive place for mosquitoes,” say the researchers.
eDNA
Strange and Veldhuis therefore want to investigate the connection between aquatic plants and these insects. It was long thought that certain invasive aquatic plants would actually reduce mosquito numbers, but it appears the opposite is true. This year, the researchers started field research in South Africa. “To look at the behavior of these plants in nature and whether this is the same behavior as in the greenhouses.”
They conduct research using eDNA left behind by organisms in the water. “By researching this, you can collect data about biodiversity and, as it were, obtain a ‘snapshot’ of aquatic life.” However, the method is expensive, so the researchers, in collaboration with the Leiden University Fund (LUF), hope to raise money to implement the program on an international scale.
Garden center
Many non-native exotic plants, for example Japanese knotweed, are for sale in the garden center and are purchased because people find them beautiful. Strange emphasizes the importance of researching in advance what you put in your garden and ponds. “The plants are easy to buy and most people are not aware of the risks of certain plants. It is important that awareness is created about this.”
Would you like to contribute to Strange and Veldhuis’ research? You can donate here.
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