Assessment of invasive aquatic plant dynamics in the Lake Burullus wetland complex integrating remote sensing techniques

Abstract

Abstract The spread of invasive aquatic species in canals and wetlands poses significant challenges, including reduced water availability, disruption of native biodiversity, and obstruction of irrigation infrastructure. This study examines the distribution and environmental associations of two prominent invasive species Pontederia crassipes and Pistia stratiotes within the Lake Burullus wetland in Egypt. Field surveys were conducted to assess plant morphology and abundance, alongside measurements of water quality parameters including dissolved oxygen (DO), phosphate (PO4–P), ammonium (NH4–N), nitrite (NO2–N), nitrate (NO3–N), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), turbidity, and oxidizable organic matter (OOM). Remote sensing data, particularly the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), were used to monitor the spatial and seasonal dynamics of Pontederia in the Elshaklouba drain. The findings indicated that plant abundance was associated with specific water quality variables; however causality could not be determined due to the observational design of the study. NDVI analysis confirmed increased Pontederia densities during the summer months, consistent with field observations. The study also documented local management practices, primarily mechanical removal and the use of physical barriers, and briefly compared these with biological and integrated control strategies reported in recent literature. Additionally, the potential application of these species in phytoremediation and bioenergy applications is discussed, underscoring their dual role as both ecological threats and potential resources.