Invasive underwater aquatic plants, such as water crassula and large water primrose, are an increasing problem in the Netherlands. These plants spread rapidly and suffocate native flora and fauna, leading to a significant decline in biodiversity. Additionally, they obstruct water flow in ditches and canals, which can result in flooding. Recreational activities, such as boating and fishing, are also negatively affected as waterways become inaccessible.

The traditional approach to managing invasive aquatic plants mainly involves physical removal and maintenance. This is done using mowing boats to cut and remove the plants. In some cases, manual methods, such as pulling out plants by hand, are used by volunteers. Additionally, ditches and canals are dredged more frequently to remove seeds and root fragments. While these methods are effective in the short term, they require repeated efforts and ongoing monitoring to prevent regrowth.

Early detection of invasive species is crucial to contain their spread and prevent large-scale damage to ecosystems, water management, and recreation. Identifying these plants in the early stages allows for targeted and cost-effective management measures, saving time and resources. Additionally, it helps prevent invasive species from displacing native flora and fauna or completely obstructing waterways.

Early detection in Dutch waters is challenging due to several factors:
1. Extensive and diverse water system: The Netherlands has a dense network of ditches, canals, lakes, and ponds, making it a massive challenge to monitor all water bodies effectively.
2. Visual similarity to native species: Many invasive plants closely resemble native aquatic plants, making identification difficult without specialized knowledge or technology.
3. Rapid spread: Due to water currents, boats, and human activity, invasive species can spread quickly, complicating efforts to locate and contain outbreaks.
4. Plants must be identified while spreading on the bottom / the water and quot;floor and quot; before the plants come to the surface. That is why it needs to work in murky waters.
5 Limited visibility: Many invasive plants grow underwater or in murky conditions, which hinders visual detection.
Advantages and innovation
Technical Specification or Expertise Sought
How can innovative technologies, such as AI, drones, eDNA analysis, or other autonomous systems, contribute to the early and efficient detection and identification of invasive aquatic plants in the diverse and complex waters of the Netherlands? The EDIH invites parties to share their solutions and ideas to help prevent the spread and protect our waterways and biodiversity.