Panvel Municipal Corporation Releases 50,000 Weevils Into Wadale Lake To Control Invasive Salvinia Weed
Panvel, September 15, 2026: The Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC), in collaboration with the ICAR-Directorate of Weed Research, Jabalpur, has released another 50,000 Cyrtobagous salviniae weevils into the historic Wadale Lake as part of an ongoing biological control programme to tackle the invasive aquatic weed Salvinia molesta. The second phase of the initiative was launched recently following…
On September 15, 2026, the Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) released an additional 50,000 Cyrtobagous salviniae weevils into Wadale Lake as part of their ongoing biological control program. The second phase of this effort follows the initial release of 20,000 weevils on May 7, 2026.
Biological Control Measures
Cyrtobagous salviniae is a specialized biological agent that feeds primarily on Salvinia molesta, also known as giant salvinia or water fern. This targeted approach reduces the need for chemical treatments and minimizes potential harm to other aquatic plants and organisms.
Impact on Lake Ecosystem
Salvinia molesta, native to South America, can rapidly form dense mats in water bodies, disrupting water circulation and adversely affecting aquatic ecosystems. The biological control program aims to restore the lake's natural balance through a sustainable method, with officials monitoring the insects' progress.
Restoration of Wadale Lake
The PMC launched this initiative following the identification of the invasive weed by environmentalist Jyoti Nadkarni in June 2025. With support from biologist Dr. Suchandra Dutta and the Citizens United Forum, the team advocated for biological control as a sustainable and cost-effective solution. Projected timelines suggest that visible deterioration of the weed should begin by February 7, 2027, with complete elimination expected by November 7, 2027.
Written by urgent.news from Free Press Journal's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
