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Both aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity in the LVB is
under serious threat from introduced exotic species.
International trade and transport are blamed for the
introduction of exotic trees in forests, gardens and water
bodies. The tick berry (
Lantana camara
) is found in a
number of protected areas and forests where it forms
dense, bushy undergrowth that inhibits the growth of
the natural vegetation. The velvet mesquite (
Prosopis
juliflora
) is a serious problem to native plant species in
several parts of the region. The most notable threat to
aquatic and wetland biodiversity is the water hyacinth
(
Eichhornia crassipes
), which is often described as the
world’s worst aquatic weed. Water hyacinth infestation
in Lake Victoria is a cause of concern for the local people
who depend on the Lake for food, water, transportation
and recreation. The water hyacinth is now present in
most tributaries of the Lake, in many satellite lakes
and in numerous wetlands. The red water fern (
Azolla
filiculoides
) is also rampant in many wetlands across
the LVB (Lake Victoria Basin Commission 2007).
Kisumu Port marooned by water hyacinth