Biological Control of Aquatic Plants with Pathogenic Fungi

摘要

The endemic fungal plant pathogen Cercospora rodmanii was shown to have a high potential as a biocontrol agent for waterhyacinths (Eichhorniae crassipes). During this study, methods of culturing and dissemination of this fungus for biocontrol purposes were developed and the host-parasite relationship was elucidated. The fungus has been patented based on the results, and it is being developed for biological control purposes. Researchers at the U. S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station will evaluate the fungus in a Large Scale Operational Management Test in Louisiana. The endemic pathogen Acremonium zonatum and the exotic rust Uredeo eichhorniae, as well as C. rodmanii, exhibit biocontrol potential for waterhyacinth. An additional exotic pathogen, Fusarium roseum 'Culmorum', shows promise for biological control of the submerged aquatic weed Hydrilla verticillata. Research with the two exotic pathogens has been slowed because of the necessity of conducting studies in quarantine. (Author)