Aggregates of particulate matter and aufwuchs on Elodea canadensis in irrigation waters, and inactivation of diquat

Abstract

In irrigation waters from the Murrumbidgee River and Murray River, south-eastern Australia. shoots of E. canadensis are heavily encrusted with a loosely attached complex of inorganic colloids with aufwuchs. Although 9,10-dihydro-8a,10a-diazoniaphenanthrene ion (diquat) is widely used overseas for the management of submerged weeds. it is often ineffective in Australian inland waters. Although several factors may be involved, measurements have shown that this surface complex would inactivate relatively high concentrations of diquat by adsorption. The activity of other aquatic herbicides may also be impaired.