Aquatic macrophyte diversity, distribution, and control in coastal Southern Ghana, with priority on non-native invasive species

Abstract

Abstract. Ernest A, Ameka GK. 2019. Aquatic macrophyte diversity, distribution, and control in coastal Southern Ghana, with priority on non-native invasive species. Ocean Life 3: 87-93. Southern Ghana has been the focus of research into the variety and distribution of aquatic macrophytes, focusing on invasive species. Greater Accra, the Central Region, the Ashanti Region, the Eastern Region, the Volta Region, and the Western Region were all included in the study. Voucher specimens were obtained from 44 locations and submitted to the Ghana Herbarium. Sixty-two species of aquatic macrophytes were found, representing 48 genera and 30 families. All the aquatic macrophytes seen were classified into two groups, those that were invasive and those that were not; these were further divided into their respective families. With nine species, the Cyperaceae family emerged as the contender. IUCN (2004) criteria were used to determine if a species met the definition of an invasive. Because of this, the observed aquatic macrophytes were classified as invasive or noninvasive. Fifty-two aquatic species were found to be noninvasive, whereas eleven were found to be invasive. The aquatic macrophytes' life histories were also analyzed. There were 41 emergent species (67%), 11 free-floating species (17%), eight submerged species (13%), and two floating-leaf species (3%). Eleven types of invasive aquatic plants were found, and distribution maps were made for each. In the southern region of Ghana, Pistia stratiotes were found in seven different locations, making it the most widespread invasive aquatic plant in the region. All 62 invasive and noninvasive species were recorded in a database. Among these were the species' scientific and colloquial names and their genus and family, description, reproduction, habitat, distribution, and uses. Each method of control for invasive aquatic macrophytes was reviewed to make advantage of the most effective strategies for their management and eradication.