Global impact of water hyacinth (Eichhornia Crassipes) on rural communities and mitigation strategies: a systematic review

The proliferation of water hyacinths (Eichhornia crassipes), recognized as one of the most invasive aquatic plants worldwide, presents profound ecological and socioeconomic challenges across diverse ecosystems, particularly in rural communities. This systematic review examines the extensive global impacts and explores various mitigation strategies to manage and utilize this pervasive species. Ecologically, water hyacinth disrupts aquatic ecosystems by depleting oxygen levels, obstructing sunlight, and displacing native species, which in turn compromises water quality and biodiversity. Economically, its rapid spread affects agriculture, fishing, and navigation, imposing significant costs on local economies and livelihoods. In response, this review assesses integrated management approaches combining mechanical, chemical, and biological controls that have been implemented to curb its growth. Moreover, innovative strategies that repurpose the biomass for bioenergy, handicrafts, and bio-remediation are discussed, highlighting their potential to transform an ecological menace into an economic resource. These strategies not only mitigate the plant’s negative impacts but also contribute to sustainable development by providing economic opportunities and enhancing ecosystem services. This review stresses the necessity for a holistic approach to water hyacinth management that is adaptive, sustainable, and beneficial to affected communities. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2024.