Dynamism and abundance of water hyacinth in the Winam Gulf of Lake Victoria: evidence from remote sensing and seasonal‐climate data

Abstract

Aquatic plant infestations impede lake traffic through navigable waterways, block ports and passen- ger ferry terminals. Timely, accurate information on aquatic plant dynamism, distributions and density is required both by public agencies and by private companies engaged in aquatic plant control efforts and the local population whose economic livelihood depends on the lake. This study combined the interpretation of remote sensing and climatic variability data in understanding the seasonal dynamism and abundance of water hyacinth in Winam Gulf of Lake Victoria. The results showed a direct relationship between the hyacinth geographic and density distribution and seasonal-climatic patterns. Gentle currents, moderate rainfall and modest but stable temperatures propagated the rapid blooming and aggregation of the hyacinth mats especially in the sheltered bays. Relatively high rainfall and high temperatures do not favor the proliferation of the weed; hence disintegration and mobility as the strengths of the currents increase in magnitude.