WATER HYACINTH AND LAKE NAIVASHA

Lake Naivasha in Kenya is severely impacted by the invasive water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes), which disrupts ecosystems by depleting oxygen, blocking waterways, and promoting mosquito breeding. This affects local livelihoods, particularly fishing, and reduces flood protection. However, water hyacinth has some uses, such as in phytoremediation and eco-friendly products.

Last Updated on 22nd January, 2025
3 minutes, 49 seconds

Description

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context:

Kenya's popular Lake Naivasha is affected by water hyacinth, which has taken over large parts of it.

About Water Hyacinth

Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) is a floating aquatic plant known for its clusters of spongy stems and beautiful purple flowers. Native to South America, it has become an invasive species causing significant ecological and economic damage in more than 50 countries, including Kenya.

Aspect

Details

Scientific Name

Eichhornia crassipes (Family: Pontederiaceae)

Appearance

Floating leaves with spongy stems, beautiful purple flowers, and rapid growth in bodies of water.

Habitat

Native to South America, it is now widespread in water bodies globally, often disrupting ecosystems.

Impact on the Environment

Oxygen Depletion

Dense mats reduce dissolved oxygen levels, harm fish populations, and increase Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD).

Blocking Waterways

Thick mats block waterways, impeding navigation, recreation, and flood control.

Increased Mosquito Breeding

Standing water around mats creates ideal conditions for mosquito breeding.

Decomposition

Releases large amounts of rotting plant material, further depleting oxygen and affecting water quality.

Economic and Social Impact

Livelihood of Fishermen

Disrupts fishing activities, negatively affecting the livelihood of local fishermen.

Flood Protection

Blocks water flow and reduces the effectiveness of flood protection systems.

Uses of Water Hyacinth

Phytoremediation

Used to clean contaminated water by trapping toxic chemicals and heavy metals.

Eco-friendly Products

Utilized in creating sustainable products, generating employment opportunities in some regions.

About Lake Naivasha

Feature

Details

Location

Southern Rift Valley, Kenya

Geological Origin

Recent geological origin; surrounded by extinct or dormant volcanoes

Water Source

Fed by perennial Malewa and Gilgil rivers, draining the Aberdare Mountains in central Kenya

Flora

Papyrus reeds (Cyperus papyrus) along the coastline; submerged plants such as Potamogeton species; floating rafts of exotic water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes)

Fauna

Diverse waterfowl community and many large mammals

Economic Activities

Freshwater provision; flower growing; fishing; geothermal energy production

Conservation Status

Designated as a Ramsar site

Source:

The Hindu

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.Consider the following statements regarding the Lake Naivasha:

  1. It is located in the Northern Rift Valley of Kenya, surrounded by active volcanoes.
  2. The lake is fed by the Malewa and Gilgil rivers, which originate from the Aberdare Mountains.
  3. The flora of Lake Naivasha includes papyrus reeds, submerged plants, and floating rafts of water hyacinth.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

A) Only one

B) Only two

C) All three

D) None

Answer: B

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: Lake Naivasha is located in the Southern Rift Valley, not the Northern Rift Valley, and is surrounded by dormant or extinct volcanoes, not active ones.

Statement 2 is correct: Lake Naivasha is fed by the Malewa and Gilgil rivers from the Aberdare Mountains.

Statement 3 is correct: The lake’s flora includes papyrus reeds, submerged plants, and floating water hyacinth.

Free access to e-paper and WhatsApp updates

Let's Get In Touch!