Water Lily a threat to Lough Leane

ENVIRONMENTAL officials are carefully monitoring the spread of an invasive species called ‘fringed water lily’ on parts of Lough Leane which has the potential to destroy native vegetation and make recreational activity like boat trips and rowing difficult if left unchecked.

Invasive species officer with the National Biodiversity Data Centre, Collette O’Flynn, said an impact assessment was carried out in 2012 by ‘Invasive Species Ireland’ and even though, nationally, there is as yet no known evidence of damage caused by the lily, there is in other countries and its potential to spread on Lough Leane continues to be monitored.

The most heavily affected parts of Lough Leane are around Ross Castle as the lily thrives in calmer bay areas where roots are allowed to establish themselves in warmer, nutrient rich waters. The lily, officially known as Nymphoides Peltata, was first introduced to Ireland in the 1800s as an ornamental pond feature. Under Irish Law, the lily is now a regulated species and it’s illegal to introduce it anywhere near natural water courses.

“First and foremost we must try and prevent its spread. Given its aquatic nature it naturally makes its removal more difficult as it’s a tricky environment to try and control it,” said Collette.

On a more positive note, the strong and choppy currents on Killarney’s lakes might just be the best antidote to prevent the lily’s spread as its roots tend to do less well in fast flowing water.

“The lily tends to spread by natural wave action which causes the roots to break up and spread. However, it’s unlikely to take over large parts of the lake as it prefers a calmer surface such as in bays and little inlets on the lake. But it still requires attention and the local authority would have been notified of this species based on research to date,” added Collette.

Meanwhile, a separate non-native species known as ‘American skunk-cabbage’, which has been present in Killarney National Park for several years, is the latest species to be regulated under European Law.