Pet stores, aquarists and the internet trade as modes ofintroduction and spread of invasive macrophytes in South Africa

摘要

Submerged aquatic invasive plant species are increasingly being recognised as a major threat to South African water ways.Pet stores, aquarists and the internet-mediated trade were investigated as pathways for submerged invasive macrophyteintroductions into South Africa. Online and manually distributed surveys were used to determine the extent of movement ofinvasive as well as indigenous submerged plant species in South Africa. Sixty-four stores and twenty-three aquarists weresurveyed. Four areas of risk were identified in this study. Firstly, and most importantly, a variety of invasive and/or prohibitedplants are sold by pet stores. Secondly, there is a lack of knowledge regarding identification as well as regulation ofsubmerged species, which may then result in the unintentional trade of potentially invasive species. It seems that, in manycases, the pet stores are ignorant or misinformed of the potential dangers, rather than intentionally attempting to breach thelegislation. Thirdly, aquarists own, trade and move plants in and around the country, which makes it very difficult to monitorwhich species are being moved around South Africa and to what extent. Finally, the internet is a pathway of potentialconcern, but it is difficult to quantify its contribution to the trade of invasive species in South Africa.