Agriculture Victoria is concerned about an increase in the sale of state-prohibited water weeds such as salvinia (Salvinia molesta) and water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) through the aquarium industry trade in Victoria.
Agriculture Victoria incursion controller Victoria Byrne said reports of salvinia for sale at aquarium shops and via online platforms such as Gumtree and Facebook marketplace had increased in recent months.
“Aquarium retailers could face serious legal consequences, such as large fines, if they are found to be selling state-prohibited weeds.
“Salvinia and water hyacinth are both floating aquatic plants that can quickly form dense mats and completely cover the water surface.
“They can block waterways, impede irrigation, and prevent recreational activities and impact water quality, resulting in the loss of native flora and fauna.
“It’s very important an effective eradication program be implemented as soon as an infestation is discovered to prevent linked open water systems from becoming infested,” she said.
Ms Byrne said people were often unaware of the serious problem posed by these weeds.
“It’s an offence under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 to buy, grow, sell, propagate or give away state-prohibited weeds, such as salvinia and water hyacinth.
“We want to work with people, both householders and aquarium retailers to ensure State prohibited weeds such as water hyacinth and salvinia don’t establish in Victoria,” Ms Byrne said.
If you spot salvinia or water hyacinth, please email photographs and details of the plant to: weed.spotters@agriculture.vic.gov.au and an officer will contact you to offer assistance.
For more information on state-prohibited weeds, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity/weeds/state-prohibited-weeds
