Aquatic Pest
Control
Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station
and Cooperative Extension Service
Category 5
Table of Contents
Introduction
Purpose and Content ....................................................................... 3
Standards of Competency ................................................................ 4
Aquatic Vegetation
Impounded Waters ......................................................................... 5
Flowing Waters ............................................................................... 5
Water Saturated Areas ..................................................................... 5
Classification of Aquatic Plants ....................................................... 6
Aquatic Invasive Plants ................................................................... 9
Control .......................................................................................... 11
Herbicide Use
Improper Use ................................................................................. 15
Proper Use ..................................................................................... 16
Herbicides for Aquatic Use ........................................................... 18
Nusiance Animal Control
Invertebrates .................................................................................. 24
Fish ................................................................................................ 25
Amphibians .................................................................................. 26
Reptiles .......................................................................................... 27
Birds .............................................................................................. 27
Mammals ....................................................................................... 27
Parasites and Diseases of Fish
Approved Drugs ............................................................................ 29
Calculations
Area ............................................................................................... 32
Volume .......................................................................................... 32
Flow .............................................................................................. 32
Additional Information
References ..................................................................................... 36
Directions for Using this Manual
This is a self-teaching manual. At the end of each major section is a list
of study questions to check your understanding of the subject matter.
These study questions are representative of the type that are on the
certification exam. By studying this manual and answering the study
questions, you should be able to gain sufficient knowledge to pass the
Kansas Commercial Applicators Certification examination. Correct
2
answers appear on page 37.
Introduction
Purpose and Content
The purpose of this training
Numerous demands are placed on
manual is to provide practical
the state’s aquatic resources. Water
information on aquatic pest control
is used in various ways. Each use
in accordance with standards of
requires a certain quality and
competency provisions in the
condition.
Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and
Sometimes a particular water Rodenticide Act.
use alters quality and condition,
This manual contains information
so other uses are impaired.
for several aquatic pests and their
Often, water contains a problem
control:
organism that must be eliminated
or controlled to make it suitable • Aquatic vegetation
for a particular use. The desired • Nuisance animals
control method must be effective, (invertebrates and vertebrates)
economical, and above all, safe
for the applicator, nontarget • Parasites and diseases of fish
organisms, and the environment. Major emphasis is on use of
Chemical control often is a choice pesticides for control, but
among available pest control alternative methods are usually
methods. This manual primarily considered. Although this
addresses methods employing publication provides a basic
pesticide applications, but operating framework, it does not
mentions alternatives. contain information necessary for
Manufacture and use of identification and control of all
pesticides for aquatic pests is aquatic pests. Study the suggested
minor compared with other references at the end of the manual
chemical uses. Companies seldom for more information.
invest resources to develop
research data required by the
Environmental Protection Agency
to be considered for registration
of a pesticide for aquatic use.
A relatively small number of
pesticides can legally be used
in the aquatic environment,
but many pesticides available
for the terrestrial environment
effectively kill aquatic pests. This
has led aquatic workers to use any
pesticide that will work and often
results in destruction of nontarget
organisms and residue levels in
fish flesh and sediments. Activities
like these are illegal and leave the
applicator liable to both criminal
and civil penalties.
3
Introduction
Standards of application of restricted
use pesticides used in
Competency this category. They shall
The Environmental Protection demonstrate practical
Agency in CFR 171.4, “Standards knowledge of various water
for Certification of Commercial use situations and the
Applicators,” states: potential of downstream
Commercial applicators effects. Further, they must
in each category shall be have practical knowledge
particularly qualified with concerning potential
respect to the practical pesticide effects on plants,
knowledge standard fish, birds, beneficial insects,
elaborated below: and other organisms that
may be present in aquatic
Applicators shall demonstrate environments. Applicators
practical knowledge of the shall demonstrate practical
secondary effects, which knowledge of the principles
can be caused by improper of limited-area application.
application rates, incorrect
formulations, and faulty
4
Aquatic Vegetation
caused by the decaying vegetation.
This can occur at almost any time
Plants have adapted to thrive of year, but is most common in
in diverse habitats. They are midsummer and in mid winter
most obvious in the terrestrial during ice cover.
environment, but they also can Summer kills usually occur after
inhabit many types of aquatic periods of hot, calm, cloudy
environments. Aquatic plants weather. During these times plants
are more numerous in the warm, greatly reduce photosynthesis,
swampy areas of the southern but continue to respire and often
United States, but numerous die and decompose. Winterkills
examples can be found in Kansas. occur during periods of ice and
Aquatic plants are a natural part snow cover. Ice usually allows
of the aquatic ecosystem, used by enough light penetration for
many animals as food or a hiding photosynthesis, but a layer of snow
place. Many people find aquatic can block out most light. This
plants interesting and attractive. light blockage prevents oxygen
As with all naturally occurring production, but respiration and
organisms, they may interfere decomposition continue, resulting
with people’s activities because in an oxygen shortage.
of their overabundance or mere
presence. When this occurs, the Flowing Water (Rivers,
plants are considered “weeds,” and Streams, and Canals)
some control is desired. Different
problems occur in different types Aquatic vegetation is seldom a
of waters. The main water types problem in the rivers and streams
and associated aquatic plant of Kansas. In fact, vegetation along
problems are as follows: the banks is beneficial because it
protects the banks from erosion.
Impounded Waters Problems can occur in canals,
which are designed to transport
(Ponds, Lakes, and water. Plants growing along the
Reservoirs) edge, especially trees, can impede
The most common aquatic water flow.
vegetation problems occur in
impounded waters. Abundant Water Saturated Areas
vegetation affects fish populations (Marshes, Seeps, and
in these bodies of water. Small fish Drainage Ditches)
hide in the vegetation, making
them unavailable to predators. This Aquatic plants usually are not
often results in overpopulation a major problem in these areas.
and stunting of certain species. Encroaching vegetation may
Excessive vegetation interferes impede flow in drainage ditches.
with fishing, swimming, and Marshes and seep areas usually
boating, and dead, decaying cannot be used for conventional
vegetation produces offensive Kansas agriculture so the
odors. A more serious problem vegetation can be left alone for
results from the oxygen deficiency
5
Aquatic Vegetation
wildlife habitat. Weed problems crushed, chara produces a musky
can occur in cultivated fields that odor.
border these wet areas, especially
in abnormally wet years. During Floating Plants
these times, the aquatic plants Some plants are free-floating
invade fields and cause special while others, rooted in the bottom,
weed-control problems. have floating leaves that rise or fall
with the water level. Many floating
Classification plants grow rapidly and are among
the most troublesome aquatic
of Aquatic Plants plants. Duckweeds (Lemna spp.)
Problem weed species must be and watermeal (Wolffia spp.) are
identified before an appropriate true floating plants of this group
weed-control practice can be whose roots feed from water rather
selected. Aquatic plants are than soil. Rooted plants with
classified by a similar growth floating leaves include waterlilies
habit as: algae, floating plants, (Nymphaea spp.) and American
submersed plants, emersed plants, lotus (Nelumbo spp.). Many lotus
and marginal plants. leaves float, but some extend above
the surface.
Algae
There are three major forms of
freshwater algae: phytoplankton
(planktonic), filamentous, and
chara. Planktonic algae are usually
beneficial unless water is used for
human consumption. Planktonic
and filamentous algae may clog
filters in water treatment plants
or produce undesirable tastes
and odors in drinking water.
Filamentous algae interfere with
irrigation systems by clinging to
structures and concrete linings Duckweed
and clogging weirs and screens.
Common filamentous algae
are Spirogyra spp. — slimy and
green; Cladaphora spp. — cotton
mat type; and Pithophora spp.
— horsehair clump type. Nitella
spp. and Chara spp. (also called
muskgrass) are large green algae
that are anchored to the bottom
but do not extend above the
surface. Stem-like, with thin,
leaf-like structures, they are often
confused with seed plants. When
Watermeal
6
Aquatic Vegetation
Submersed Plants
Submersed plants are true seed
plants with roots, stems, and leaves.
Rooted on the bottom, these plants
grow chiefly below the surface,
although their flowers and seeds
and a few leaves may extend above
it. A depth of 10 to 12 feet in clear
water is the limited habitat for
most submersed plants. Important
submersed plants include:
pondweeds (Potamogeton spp.),
elodea (Elodea spp.), watermilfoil
(Myriophyllum spp.), coontail Naiad
(Ceratophyllum spp.), naiads (Najas
spp.), hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) Emersed Plants
and bladderwort (Utricularia spp.). Emersed plants are rooted in the
bottom and produce most of their
leaves and flowers at or above the
surface. Leaf shape, size, and point
of attachment are variable within
this group. Leaves of emersed
plants do not rise and fall with the
water level as do those of attached
floating plants. Important emersed
plants include: watershield
(Brasenia spp.), arrowhead
(Sagittaria spp.), water primrose
(Ludwigia spp.), and waterwillow
(Justicia spp.).
Pondweed
Arrowhead
Coontail
7
Aquatic Vegetation
Water Primrose Smartweed
Marginal Plants Identification
Marginal plants are emersed plants Target weeds in the water-use
that grow on saturated soil beyond area must be correctly identified
the water’s edge. These plants so appropriate control practices
vary in size, shape, and habitat. can be selected and applied. For
They may be found growing identification of unfamiliar aquatic
in moist soils along shorelines plants, take samples of entire
into water up to 2 feet in depth. plants (roots, stems, leaves and
Important marginal weeds are flowers if available) to your local
reeds (Phragmites spp.), sedge K-State Research and Extension
(Carex spp.), bulrush (Scirpus spp.), agent. If necessary, the agent can
rush (Juncus spp.), cattails (Typha send the aquatic plants to the
spp.), giant cutgrass (Zizaniopsis Herbarium, Division of Biology,
spp.), smartweeds (Polygonum for proper identification. Control
spp.), purple loosestrife (Lythrum information can be requested if
spp.), willow (Salix spp.), saltcedar you desire management practices
or tamarisk (Tamarix spp.) and for the aquatic plants based on the
cottonwood (Populus spp.). plant identification report.
Bulrush
8
Aquatic Vegetation
Aquatic Invasive Plants
Kansas has five invasive plant
species that individuals should be
aware of in aquatic environments.
These plants pose a threat to
the health of Kansas aquatic
ecosystems and on the human
use of those resources. In order
to help prevent their spread, it is
important to be aware of these
plant species and their identifiable
features.
Hydrilla
Hydrilla
Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata)
has leaves that are small, pointed
and arranged in whorls of four to
eight along the stem. This plant
is submersed with long, slender
branches that branch and spread
across the water. The leaf margins
are distinctly saw-toothed making
it rough to the touch. Hydrilla
limits recreational activities
because it forms a thick mat that
Eurasian Watermilfoil interferes with boating, swimming,
Eurasian Watermilfoil and fishing. It also slows the flow
Eurasian watermilfoil of water and clogs irrigation and
(Myriophyllum spicatum) is flood-control canals. Hydrilla
identified by the whorl arrangement spreads to new waters as fragments
of its three to five feather-like on boats and trailers, so it is
leaves. Each leaf contains 12 to 21 important to clean equipment.
pair of leaflets. The stems branch
near the water surface and it is
most commonly found in waters
less than 20 feet deep. Eurasian
watermilfoil forms dense mats on
the water surface, which competes
with native aquatic vegetation
and hinders recreational activities.
Milfoil spreads when plant pieces
break off and are carried by water
currents, boats, trailers, and fishing
gear to new locations. Early
detection of current populations
may help to prevent its spread.
9
Aquatic Vegetation
Saltcedar
Saltcedar (Tamarix spp.),
sometimes called tamarisk, is a
small tree or shrub that can reach
15 to 20 feet with red/brown
stems. This plant produces pink
flowers in May through October.
Saltcedar forms a monoculture
and dramatically affects vegetation
structure and animal diversity. It
can use up to 200 gallons of water
a day, thus has a negative impact
on the water flow. The plant also
Purple Loosestrife
accumulates salt in its tissues,
Purple Loosestrife which is later released in the soil,
Purple loosestrife (Lythrum creating an environment where
salicaria) is a perennial herb that other plants cannot grow. Saltcedar
can grow four to 10 feet high. is extremely difficult to eradicate
During the summer, the plant because it resprouts after being cut
produces a showy magenta- or burned.
colored flower spike. The leaves
are lance-shaped with a rounded
or heart-shaped base. Loosestrife
can produce over a million seeds,
which can be moved by water,
vehicles, and wildlife. This plant
restricts other native wetland
species and reduces habitat for
waterfowl. Small infestations may
be pulled by hand, but old plants
will need to be spot treated with a
herbicide.
Curly-Leaf Pondweed
Curly-Leaf Pondweed
Curly-leaf pondweed (Potamogeton
crispus) is a fast-growing perennial
that has simple, long, narrow
leaves. The flattened stems are
one to three inches long and 1/8
inch wide. In the spring, it forms
dense mats which interfere with
recreational activities and limit
the growth of native species.
Mechanical, biological and
Saltcedar chemical control techniques can be
effective.
10
Aquatic Vegetation
Control control cattails, willows, and
cottonwood trees in small ponds.
Control of aquatic weeds can Small amounts of submersed
be subdivided into four general plants can be pulled out or raked
categories: (1) prevention, (2) by hand. Larger amounts can be
mechanical and physical, (3) removed by pulling a long chain or
biological, and (4) herbicides. cable across a pond between two
Often a combination of these tractors.
practices is necessary for adequate
control. A device that is effective on
submersed vegetation is a
Prevention hand-pulled cutter, consisting
Effective planning and aquatic of a v-shaped flat metal piece
system management often sharpened on the outer edge. A
eliminates, or greatly reduces, rod is fastened to the point and a
the need for costly and time- rope attached to this. The device is
consuming weed-control practices. thrown out into the vegetation and
Aquatic weed problems typically pulled in with a jerking motion.
occur in clear, shallow water that This cuts off the vegetation so it
is high in nutrients. Ponds or lakes can float to shore where it can be
should be constructed so that raked out.
shallow water areas are minimized Submersed vegetation can also
by shaping the sides with a 3-to-1 be controlled by shading it with
slope (3 feet horizontal to 1 foot fine meshed dark plastic screen
vertical drop) down to a depth of similar to the type used to shade
at least 3 feet. Existing ponds or greenhouses. A large section of
lakes that have extensive shallow this material is placed over the
water areas can be dredged deeper, vegetation and weighted down
but a less expensive practice is to with rocks. This compresses and
use a bulldozer to deepen shallow shades the vegetation so it dies.
areas after the water level has After about 2 weeks, the screen
receded below these areas. can be moved to another area. The
Excessive nutrients should be advantage of this method is that
prevented from getting into the fishing, swimming, and boating
water since they will stimulate can take place over the screen.
rapid plant growth. Common Various types of weed harvesters
sources of nutrients are runoff have been used, including a cutting
from livestock holding areas, device on a floating barge. As the
septic tank drainage, and heavily weeds are cut, they are brought up
fertilized fields. on a conveyor and deposited on
the barge. Devices such as these
Mechanical and Physical
are expensive and disposal of the
Mechanical and physical control
wet, heavy plant material is a
methods will be more effective
problem.
in smaller bodies of water than
in larger bodies of water. Pulling All mechanical and physical
marginal plants by hand is an control methods are labor intensive
effective reduction practice to and give only short-term relief.
11
Aquatic Vegetation
They work best on small bodies of to 10 fish per acre are sufficient.
water that can be observed closely Control is achieved within one
so control can take place before year at these stocking levels. At
the problem gets too large. These half these levels, control may take
methods are especially effective in up to two years.
home sewage lagoons. For more
Stocking new, clear ponds and
effective control, use mechanical
lakes at three to five grass carp
and physical control practices in
per acre can prevent development
conjunction with biological or
of aquatic weed problems. Grass
chemical control methods.
carp need to be at least 10 to 12
Biological inches long to avoid predation
Herbivorous fish, the grass if predatory fish such as bass are
carp, sometimes called the white in the pond or lake. The initial
amur (Ctenopharyngodon idella), stocking should be effective for at
is an effective biological method least several years since these are
to control aquatic vegetation. A long-lived fish. A few replacement
member of the minnow family, fish can be stocked if aquatic weed
this fish is native to large rivers infestation increases.
of China and Siberia. It will not Only a few problems are associated
reproduce in ponds and lakes since with grass carp. They do not
it needs large, fast-flowing rivers reproduce in standing water
for reproduction. nor do they seem to compete or
The young grass carp feed on interfere with the game fish. They
small crustaceans and insects, may, however, cause some loss of
but as they grow larger, they clarity of the water. Clear weedy
shift their diet almost completely ponds become less clear when
to plant material. They prefer stocked with grass carp. As the
some plants over others, but will grass carp eat the vegetation, the
consume many species of floating nutrients are excreted through
and submerged plants found in wastes. These in turn stimulate the
Kansas. They will pull out and eat production of planktonic algae,
some of the emersed plants, but which decrease the clarity. Grass
will not be able to control them. carp are indiscriminate feeders and
They have voracious appetites and can get so large that they consume
grow rapidly until the plants are most of the desirable vegetation
controlled and then their growth in a pond and greatly reduce fish
levels off. productivity.
The amount of grass carp Grass carp are highly mobile and
needed for control of submersed they will readily leave a pond or
vegetation depends on the lake during periods of heavy flow
infestation of aquatic plants. Grass over the spillway. Use of mesh
carp at the rate of 20 fish per fence across the spillway can
acre are needed if at least half of prevent loss of these fish. Some
the area is normally covered by states have restrictions regarding
vegetation. For vegetation in only the use of grass carp, but Kansas
a narrow belt around the edge, five only requires that they be of
nonreproductive triploid genetics.
12
Aquatic Vegetation
Fertilizers added to water have large number of waterfowl needed
been used to control aquatic for control of submersed and
weeds. Fertilizers stimulate the marginal plants results in a large
growth of planktonic algae, amount of wastes, which fertilizes
which in turn decreases the water the water. This often results in
clarity, and prevents growth of algae problems.
submersed vegetation. Although
Barley straw has been used
it appears to be a good practice,
by researchers in the United
it usually creates other problems.
Kingdom to control a variety of
Additional nutrients may cause
planktonic and filamentous algae.
an increase of marginal vegetation
Results in the United States are
and also filamentous algae.
not consistent, but show that
Increased infestation of algae
the decomposing straw must be
and other vegetation may cause
subjected to well-oxygenated water
oxygen depletion as the plants
for it to become anti-algal. The best
die and decay. Fertilization is not
control is obtained by suspending
recommended in Kansas because
barley straw bales that have been
most waters in Kansas lakes and
broken apart and suspended in
ponds contain sufficient nutrients.
cages near the water surface. Use
Waterfowl have also been used about 100 to 300 pounds of straw
to control aquatic plants. Ducks, per acre but be aware that most
geese, and swans will eat aquatic waters in the Midwest are typically
vegetation. Many pond and lake stagnant and oxygen-poor.
owners enjoy waterfowl. But the
13
Introduction
Aquatic Vegetation Study Questions 5. Important marginal plants
include:
These study questions are to aid
you in learning the material on a. duckweeds and watermeal.
pages 3 through 13. b. coontail and bladderwort.
1. Use of terrestrial registered c. arrowhead and waterwillow.
pesticides in an aquatic control d. willow and smartweeds.
program can result in:
6. Control of aquatic weeds can be
a. destruction of nontarget done by:
organisms.
a. preventative methods.
b. residues in fish.
b. biological methods.
c. residues in the sediments.
c. mechanical and chemical
d. all of the above. methods.
2. Aquatic plants are: d. all of the above.
a. a natural part of the aquatic 7. For vegetation in a narrow belt
environment. around the edge of a lake, grass
b. seldom a problem in farm carp fish should be stocked at the
ponds. rate of ___ per acre.
c. used by aquatic animals for a. 1 to 3
food and hiding. b. 5 to 10
d. a and c are correct. c. 12 to 17
3. In Kansas, aquatic vegetation in d. 19 to 22
flowing water is seldom a problem
8. Aquatic weed control may vary as
in:
influenced by:
a. canals used for transporting
a. susceptibility of the weeds to
water.
herbicide.
b. rivers and streams.
b. weed stage of growth.
c. stock watering tanks.
c. rate and time of application.
d. farm ponds.
d. all of the above.
4. There are ___ major forms of fresh
water algae.
a. 1
b. 2
c. 3
d. 4
14
Herbicide Use
Improper Use
Herbicides may be used to control Improper Application Rates
aquatic weeds, but control may Proper use of herbicides requires
vary because of such factors as accurate application so water,
susceptibility of the aquatic weeds vegetation, or soil in an aquatic
to the herbicide, stage of growth, area is covered uniformly at the
rate of application, and the time rate recommended on the product
of application. Some herbicides label. Properly functioning,
also may cause injury to fish if not accurately calibrated equipment is
applied properly. This publication essential.
provides information on alternative Application of a herbicide below
herbicides and their use for aquatic the rate recommended on the
weed control. label can result in unsatisfactory
Herbicides are frequently the control of target aquatic weeds.
preferred method for control Herbicide application at a rate
of aquatic weeds in situations higher than the recommended
requiring fast results and control rate for the product is illegal and
for several months. But even can result in greater residue and/
chemical methods frequently or toxicity. Herbicides applied at
must be combined with hand or rates exceeding the recommended
mechanical weeding to remove rate can create a hazard by
remaining weeds and to prevent contaminating water used for
future spread by seed or other drinking, fish, livestock, other
plant parts. nontarget organisms, irrigation, or
other purposes.
Additional information on proper
use of registered herbicides for Incorrect Formulation
most effective aquatic pest control The use of an incorrect
and least or no effect on nontarget formulation can result in:
organisms or the environment can 1. Use of a product that is not
be obtained from the following effective or safe.
sources: information from
2. Increased toxicity resulting
product labels and manufacturers
in death or injury to fish and
of herbicides registered by the
other nontarget organisms.
Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) for use in aquatic areas, 3. Increased hazard to humans
K-State Research and Extension, during application.
and Kansas Department of 4. Increased hazard of injury to
Wildlife and Parks. desirable nontarget plants.
15
Herbicide Use
Faulty Application not injure fish at concentrations
Faulty application can be the result required for weed control.
of the following:
Proper use of herbicides will result
1. Improperly calibrated in the most effective control of
equipment. aquatic weeds and little or no effect
2. Use of improper herbicide. on nontarget organisms or the
environment. Follow these rules:
3. Use of improper rate of
1. Select the appropriate
recommended formulation.
herbicide to control the
4. Application at improper stage of identified target weeds. Refer
plant growth of target weeds. to Table 1 for weed response
5. Application of foliar-applied to selected aquatic herbicides.
herbicides when weeds are 2. Consult with Kansas
not growing rapidly due to Department of Wildlife and
unfavorable growing conditions. Parks or the U.S. Fish and
6. Application to plants, water, Wildlife Service for advice
or areas not registered for if a proposed herbicide
treatment on product label. application might endanger
wildlife, fish, or their habitat.
7. Application during windy
or other undesirable weather 3. Apply the herbicide in
conditions. accordance with all directions,
warnings, and precautions on
8. Improper determination of the label. Refer to the Table
volume of lake or pond to be on page 18 for use restrictions
treated. of water treated with aquatic
9. Failure to take into account that herbicides.
overflow from a pond or lake is 4. Store excess pesticides under
flowing water. lock and key — out of reach
10. Failure to determine of children and animals —
downstream use patterns. and away from food and feed.
5. Properly dispose of empty
Proper Use pesticide containers.
All chemicals used for aquatic This manual contains pesticide
pest control should be applied in recommendations that are subject
accordance with the directions to change at any time. These
on the manufacturer’s label, as recommendations are provided as
registered under the Federal a guide. It is always the pesticide
Insecticide, Fungicide and applicator’s responsibility, by law,
Rodenticide Act. to read and follow all current label
Most herbicides have a low acute directions for the specific pesticide
oral toxicity, but a few aquatic being used.
herbicides are poisonous to human Due to constantly changing labels
beings, livestock, and other non- and product registration, some
target organisms. Some herbicides of the recommendations given in
are toxic to fish, but most do
16
Herbicide Use
this publication may no longer must be disregarded. No
be legal by the time you read endorsement is intended for
them. If any information in these products mentioned, nor is
recommendations disagrees with criticism meant for products not
the label, the recommendation mentioned.
Table 1. Response of Aquatic Weeds to Selected Herbicides1 and Approximate Treatment Costs
Aquatic Herbicide (Trade name)
Endothall
Copper Diquat Fluridone Glyphosate
(Aquathol
Aquatic Weed Aquatic Algaecides 2,4-D (Reward & and (Sonar and (Rodeo and Imazapyr Triclopyr
Classification Weed (Several) (Several) WeedtrineD) Hydrothol) Avast) Others) (Habitat) (Renovate)
Algae Chara E P G G2 P P P P
Filamentous E P G G2 P P P P
Planktonic E P P P P P P P
Floating
Plants Duckweed P G G P E3 F G P
Watermeal P P F P G3 F P
Rooted
Floating
Plants Waterlillies P E P P E E E E
Submersed Bladderwort P F E P E P P P
Plants Coontail P G E E E P P P
Elodea P E F2 E P P P
Naiad P F E E E P P P
Pondweeds P P G E E P P P
Watermilfoil P G G G E P P E
Emersed
Plants Arrowhead P E G P P E E
Water
Primrose P E F P F E G E
Marginal Cattails P F G P F E E F
Plants Smartweeds P F P P P E E E
Purple
Loosestrife P F P P P E E G
Willow P E P P P E E E
Cottonwood P G P P P G G E
$2.50-20/ $7-65/ $250-700/ $50-220/ $60-150/ $15-30/ $33-133/ $80-320/
Approximate Cost4 Acre-ft Acre-ft Surface acre Acre-ft Acre-ft Surface acre Surface acre Surface acre
1
E = Excellent, G = Good, F = Fair, and P = Poor or none. Refer to product labels for specific recommendations.
2
Hydrothol formulation only.
3
AS formulation only.
4
Herbicide cost varies with application rate, water depth, formulation, geography, and market fluctuations. Contact local supplier for current retail
prices.
17
Herbicide Use
Herbicides Rate of application: Rates for
algae control range from 0.67 to
for Aquatic Use 5.32 pounds of copper sulfate per
acre–foot of water. Four pounds
Copper Algaecides of powder or crystals per acre–
foot is generally strong enough
Copper Sulfate
to kill algae and stonewort in
Products and manufacturers:
most waters. This concentration
Copper Sulfate — Chem One
kills snails, but does not kill
Corp and Phelps Dodge.
fish. In alkaline water, stronger
Copper Sulfate use information: concentrations may be necessary.
Do not exceed 4 ppm in potable Treatment is ineffective in waters
water. Copper sulfate controls with total alkalinity greater than
microscopic algae, single-filament 250 ppm. In moderate to high
algae, and Chara (stonewort), alkalinity waters (greater than
but is not effective against 200 ppm), the copper chelated
submersed or emersed leafy weeds. products are recommended. Use
Copper sulfate may be used in only 1.2 pounds of copper sulfate
recommended concentrations per acre–foot in very soft water as
without harm in waters for fish may be killed at the 4-pound
livestock and irrigation. Copper rate.
sulfate corrodes galvanized cans
How to apply: Copper sulfate
and most spraying equipment.
is available in different crystal
Plastic sprinkling cans are
and granular grades depending
convenient for applying copper
on application needs. Crystals
sulfate.
may be scattered by hand on the
surface of small ponds or placed
Table 2. Water Use Restrictions with Aquatic Herbicides
Human
Aquatic Livestock
Fish Agricultural
Herbicide Drinking Swimming Consumption Dairy Meat Irrigation Spray
---------------------------------------(Number of days after treatment before use1)-----------------------------------
Copper Sulfate 02 0 0 0 0 0 0
Copper Chelate 02 0 0 0 0 0 0
2,4-D ---------------------------------------(Varies with formulation, consult the label)-----------------------------------
Diquat 3-5 0 0 1-5 1-5 5 5
Endothall 7-25 1 3 7-25 0 7-25
Fluridone X3 0 0 0 2-30 30
Glyphosate 2 0 0 0 0 0 0
Imazapyr 2 0 0 0 0 120
Tricolpyr X4 0 0 0 0 120 120
Aquatic Dyes X 0 0 0 0 0 0
Always consult product labels for current restrictions.
1
X = Do not use treated water for that purpose.
2
Elemental copper concentration should not exceed 1.0 ppm if water is used for drinking.
3
Do not apply within 0.25 mile of any functioning potable water intake.
4
Refer to label.
18
Herbicide Use
in a burlap bag and towed behind be toxic to trout and other species
a boat. Crystals or powder can be of fish in soft water (<50 ppm
dissolved in water and applied by carbonate hardness).
spraying the water surface. If a
heavy growth of algae is present, 2,4-D
treat only one-third or one-half
of the pond at a time at weekly 2,4-D Low Volatile Ester
intervals. This prevents depleting Granules
the oxygen when the mass of Products and manufacturers:
dead organic matter decomposes. Aqua-Kleen — Cerexagri;
You may treat an isolated mass of Navigate — Applied Biochemists,
stonewort or algae without treating Inc.
the whole pond.
Herbicide use Information: For
Caution: Residual copper is toxic use to control specified aquatic
to many aquatic animals. Frequent weeds (refer to product labels) in
and continued use may result in ponds and lakes. Granules sink to
the kill of a large part of the fish- bottom and release weed-killing
food supply. chemical in the critical root zone
area. Apply 100 to 200 pounds
Copper Chelates
per acre by portable spreader or
Products and manufacturer:
mechanical spreader. During
Cutrine-Plus and Stocktrine II —
growth season, weeds decompose
Applied Biochemists, Inc., K-Tea
in a 2- to 3-week period following
and Komeen — Griffin, and
treatment.
others.
Apply in spring and early summer
Herbicide use information: For
during the time weeds start to
use in lakes, private farm, fish and
grow. Do not apply to more than
fire ponds; fish hatcheries; potable
third to half of a lake or pond in
water reservoirs, irrigation systems,
any one month because of excess
and stock tanks (Stocktrine). Apply
decaying vegetation which may
to control algae including Chara,
deplete oxygen content of water,
Spirogyra, and Cladophora. Chelates
killing fish. Do not apply to waters
prevent precipitation of copper with
used for irrigation, agricultural
carbonates or bicarbonates in the
sprays, watering dairy animals, or
water.
domestic water supplies.
To avoid suffocation of fish due to
lack of oxygen caused by decay of 2,4-D Amine
heavy infestations treat only a third Product and Manufacturer:
to half of the lake or pond at a time. Several
Water treated with this product Herbicide use information: For
may be used for drinking, livestock use to control aquatic weeds and
watering, swimming or fishing weeds adjacent to water. Apply for
immediately after treatment. Water control of annual weeds, perennial
treated with this product also may weeds, and woody plants. Do not
be used to irrigate turf, ornamental apply to more than a third to half
plants, or crops immediately after of a lake or pond in any one month
treatment. Copper chelates may
19
Herbicide Use
because excess decaying vegetation ditches: bladderwort, coontail, elodea,
may deplete oxygen content of water, naiad, pondweeds, and watermilfoil.
killing fish. Do not apply to waters Other aquatic weeds controlled
used for irrigation, agricultural include duckweed, cattails, and some
sprays, watering dairy animals, or filamentous algae.
domestic water supplies.
Endothall
Diquat Products and manufacturers:
Products and manufacturers: Aquathol and Hydrothol 191 —
Reward — Syngenta and Cerexagri.
Weedtrine D — Applied
Herbicide use information:
Biochemists.
Aquathol and Hydrothol 191 are
Herbicide use information: May different formulations of endothall
be fatal if swallowed, inhaled or and are both available as granular
absorbed through skin. Skin contact or liquid formulations. Hydrothol
will cause severe skin irritation. Do controls most algae and submersed
not get material on skin, eyes, or plants, but is toxic to fish at
clothing. Contact with skin may dosages in excess of 0.3 ppm.
increase danger of absorption. For Aquathol controls most submersed
application only to ponds, lakes, and plants and is not toxic to fish, but
drainage ditches where there is little does not control algae. Apply in
or no outflow of water and that are late spring or early summer when
totally under control of product’s user. weeds are actively growing. Do not
Diquat is rapidly absorbed by use treated water for irrigation,
aquatic plants and begins to work agricultural sprays, livestock, or
immediately upon contact. Plant domestic purposes for at least 7 to
tissue is destroyed, causing wilting 25 days after treatment.
and loss of foliage. Do not use treated
water for animal consumption, Fluridone
spraying, or irrigation for 14 days Product and manufacturers:
after treatment. Do not apply within Sonar AS and Sonar SRP
¼ mile of any functioning potable — SePRO, Avast — Griffin,
water intake. Whitecap-Novasource.
Treatment of dense weed areas Sonar use information: For
can result in oxygen loss from management of aquatic weeds in
decomposition of dead weeds. Treat fresh water ponds, lakes, reservoirs,
only a third to half of the dense drainage canals, and irrigation
weed area at a time to avoid fish canals. Sonar is absorbed from
suffocation from oxygen loss and wait water through leaves and shoots,
10 to 14 days between treatments. and from hydrosoil by the roots.
Do not apply to muddy water. Apply Sonar causes chlorosis at the
diquat in early season to control terminal bud or growing points
submersed weeds before weed of plant, and then plants slowly
growth has reached surface. Diquat deteriorate. Complete weed
will control the following submersed removal may require 30 to 90 days.
weeds infesting still ponds, lakes and Sonar AS is effective in controlling
20
Herbicide Use
duckweed; certain emersed trees listed on the label. Aquatic
weeds including spatterdock and plants controlled include cattails,
waterlily; certain submersed weeds annual and perennial smartweeds,
including bladderwort, coontail, spatterdock, and willow. Perennial
elodea, naiads, pondweeds, and plants generally are best controlled
watermilfoil; and certain shoreline when treated during the flowering
grasses. Sonar provides partial stage of growth. Do not apply this
control of certain vascular aquatic product within 1/2 mile upstream of
weeds including American lotus, potable water intakes, unless intake
arrowhead, cattail, rush, and is turned off for a minimum of
smartweed. 48 hours after application.
For best results, apply Sonar before
initiation of weed growth or when Imazapyr
weeds begin actively growing. Product and manufacturer:
The Sonar label indicates users Habitat — BASF.
must consult with appropriate
Habitat use information: For
state or local water authorities
control of most emerged and
before applying this product. Do
floating plants in and around
not apply in lakes, ponds, or other
standing or flowing water. Habitat
bodies of water where crayfish
does not control plants which are
farming is performed. There are no
completely submerged or that
label restrictions against swimming
have a majority of foliage under
or fishing in water treated with
water. Apply in combination with
Sonar. There are no restrictions on
a nonionic surfactant approved for
consumption of treated water by
aquatic sites as directed on the label.
humans, pets, and livestock.
Habitat is a systemic herbicide that
can be absorbed through the foliage
Glyphosate or roots of plants. Plants will stop
Product and manufacturer: growing soon after application,
Rodeo — Dow AgroSciences, but may not show symptoms or
and others. die for several days or weeks after
Glyphosate use information: This treatment. Unintended application
product may be used in and around to the foliage or soil where roots of
aquatic sites, including all bodies of desirable plants occur can result in
fresh and brackish water, which may severe injury or death of the plants.
be flowing, non-flowing or transient. There are no restrictions on the use
This includes lakes, rivers, streams, of water treated with Habitat for
ponds, seeps, irrigation and drainage recreation purposes or consumption
ditches, canals, reservoirs, and similar by livestock. Water treated with
sites. There is no restriction on use Habitat may not be used for
of water for irrigation, recreation, or irrigation purposes until 120 days
domestic purposes. Apply Rodeo after application. Do not apply this
product within 1/2 mile upstream of
plus nonionic surfactant approved
potable water intakes, unless intake
for aquatic sites as directed on the
is turned off for a minimum of 48
label to control or partially control
hours after application. Currently
marginal weeds, woody brush, and
this product is approved for use
21
Herbicide Use
only by state and federal agencies Aquatic dyes
or certified aquatic pest control
applicators who are authorized by Product and manufacturer:
state or local governments. Aquashade — Applied
Biochemists, and others.
Triclopyr Aquatic dye use information:
These products are a mixture of
Product and manufacturer:
blue and yellow dyes that intercept
Renovate — SePRO.
light penetration in water. Aquatic
Renovate use information: For dyes do not directly control the
control of certain submersed, plants through herbicidal activity,
emersed, and marginal plants but limit growth of plants below
in and adjacent to aquatic sites the water surface through shading
with minimal outflow. Apply effect. Primarily for control of
in combination with a nonionic submersed, rooted weeds, and
surfactant approved for aquatic some algae. Should only be used
sites as directed on the label. There in bodies of water with little or no
are no restrictions on the use of through-flow, in order to maintain
water treated with Renovate for dye concentration. Products should
recreation purposes or consumption be applied before foliage reaches
by livestock. Water treated with the water surface. These products
Renovate may not be used for are nontoxic to fish, wildlife,
irrigation purposes until 120 days livestock, humans, and turf. Do not
after application. Refer to the label use where water is used for human
for grazing restrictions following consumption. Safe for swimming
applications to terrestrial sites. after complete dispersal. May be
undesirable to some individuals due
to artificial appearance of water.
NPDES (National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System)
permits maybe required for
pesticide applications to and around
water. The state contact at the
Kansas Department of Health and
Environment is Don Carlson at
(785) 296-5547.
Environmental Considerations
The general considerations, restrictions, and problems mentioned
earlier in the herbicide section also apply to other chemical usage.
The use of the water and fish must be considered. Directions and
restrictions on the pesticide label must be followed.
The publication contains common names and trade names for
herbicides. No endorsement of named products is intended nor
criticism implied of similar products which are not mentioned.
22
Herbicide Use
Study Questions 5. 2,4-D low-volatile ester
________ can be applied to
These study questions are to aid control weeds in ponds and lakes.
you in learning the material on
pages 15 through 22. a. amine 4
1. The improper application rate of b. granules
herbicides in aquatic pest control c. LV4
can adversely affect: d. postemergence herbicide
a. irrigation water. 6. Do not use Diquat treated water
b. drinking water. for animal consumption, spraying
c. fish. or irrigation for ____ days after
treatment.
d. all of the above.
a. 5
2. Improperly calibrated equipment
can cause: b. 9
c. 14
a. a faulty application.
d. 20
b. increased toxicity to fish and
other nontarget organisms. 7. Aquashade contains a mixture of
c. safe application of the _________ dyes that intercept
herbicide. light penetration in the water.
d. both a and b. a. orange and black
3. Treat ____ of a lake or pond at b. blue and yellow
any one time with Cutrine-Plus c. red and green
Algaecide to avoid suffocation of d. purple and white
fish due to oxygen depletion.
8. Water treated with Imazapyr
a. 0.1 to 0.2 or Triclpyr can not be used for
b. 0.3 to 0.5 irrigation until ____ days after
c. 0.6 to 0.8 application.
d. 0.9 to 1.0 a. 5
4. Copper sulfate is not effective b. 25
against _________. c. 30
a. single-filament algae. d. 120
b. submersed leafy weeds.
c. emersed leafy weeds.
d. both b and c.
23
Nuisance Animal
Regardless of the chemical used,
Control care must be taken to avoid
Occasionally the presence or exposure to nontarget organisms
activity of a type of animal and treated water must be
interferes with the management isolated to prevent contamination
objective for a body of water. of other water. Always follow
Such animal species are normally label directions and precautions.
present in the system but become The application of unapproved
too abundant, thus posing a compounds could lead to water
problem, or they may be species and soil contamination, kills of
that invade the body of water and desirable organisms, and residues
their activities cannot be tolerated. in fish flesh.
This section presents some of the
Nuisance Invertebrate Species
more common problems created
Zebra mussels – Zebra mussels
by nuisance aquatic animals and
(Dreissena polymorpha) usually
discusses control methods.
are less than an inch long with a
D-shaped shell and tend to resemble
Invertebrates small clams. They use sticky byssal
Certain invertebrates, other than threads to attach tightly to any
parasite and disease organisms of surface. The problem is they can
fishes, can become problems in attach to any solid substrate. The
ponds and lakes used for recreation zebra mussel is responsible for
or for aquaculture. clogging pipes at water treatment
plants. They also filter large amounts
In some cases snails may become
of water, in order to eat plankton,
the intermediate host for the
which can lead to algal blooms
parasite that causes swimmer’s
and affect native populations of
itch. It may be impractical to break
mussels. Zebra mussels are found in
the cycle by eliminating the final
many water bodies in Kansas. Their
hosts (ducks and muskrats), but
spread can be prevented with proper
partial control can be achieved
precautions. Zebra mussels are
by reducing the snail population.
spread primarily by the recreational
This can be done chemically by
activities. They can attach to a
copper sulfate used at the same
boat’s hull and trailer. This is why it
dosage for control of algae. Non-
is important to drain all the water
chemical control methods include
from boats, live wells, and bait wells.
controlling aquatic vegetation and
Wash the equipment in 140-degree
stocking with snail eating fish,
water to help insure that you are
such as catfish and redear sunfish.
not responsible for transporting this
Predaceous aquatic insects and pest. Chemicals can be used to kill
crayfish are often a problem in zebra mussels, but the chemicals will
aquaculture ponds that are stocked also have negative effects on fish and
with newly hatched fish (fry). If native mussels.
these predators are not controlled,
The rusty crayfish (Orconectes
fish survival may be very low.
rusticus) and New Zealand
Various chemicals are effective in
mudsnails (Potamopyrgus
controlling aquatic insects.
antipodarum) are invertebrates
24
Nuisance Animal
that have the potential to become necessary to completely remove
invasive species in Kansas. Rusty the fish population and start Control
crayfish have large black-tipped over. Complete removal can be
claws and colored spots on the accomplished by draining the body
carapace. If they are found in of water or by chemical treatment.
Kansas, they could potentially Chemical removal of fish
displace native crayfish and destroy populations is a widely practiced
plant diversity. The New Zealand management procedure applied to
mudsnail has brown or black cone- ponds and lakes used for recreation
shaped shells with five whorls. It or for aquaculture.
has the ability to reproduce quickly
Many chemicals are toxic to
resulting in large densities, which
fish, but most of these affect
compete with native invertebrates
nontarget organisms, cause
and fish. Report sightings of these
environmental contamination,
species to the Kansas Department
or later show up as residues in
of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP).
fish flesh. A few chemicals have
Further information about any of
undergone the testing required for
the aquatic nuisance species can be
registration. Table 3 gives approved
obtained from the KDWP website
formulations of the chemicals
at http://www.kdwp.state.ks.us/
approved as fish-control agents.
news/Fishing/Aquatic-Nuisance-
Species. Invasive Fish Species
Kansas has five invasive fish species
Fish to watch for in aquatic environments
Fish populations frequently as well as others that are emerging.
become unproductive from either These fish threaten the health of
an overabundance of stunted Kansas aquatic ecosystems because
desirable fish or contamination they outcompete native fish for
by undesirable fish species. food and space. To help prevent
Adjustment of the fish population their spread, it is important to be
may bring it back into a productive aware of these fish species and their
situation. Other times it may be identifiable features.
Table 3. Fish Control Agents Registered or Approved for Aquatic or Fishery Uses
Fish Control Agent Fishery Use Application Rate Comments
Treatment rate dependent
on water temperatures and
1-10 ppb active ingredient
Antimcycin Piscicide pH. Not approved for use
(0.4-4.3 fl. oz./acre foot)
on fish intended for human
or animal consumption.
Do not use in waters colder
than 65 F. Not approved
1-5 ppm active ingredient
Rotenone (Restricted) Piscicide for use on fish intended
(2.7-13.6 lb./acre foot)
for human or animal
consumption.
25
Nuisance Animal
White Perch – White perch (Morone species can reach more than 60
Control americana) are usually less than 10 pounds in weight and 4 feet in
inches long with a variable coloring, length. Asian carp grow quickly
but they are generally silvery green on and have a voracious appetite. They
the sides. They resemble the native directly compete with other fish for
white bass without looking at their food resources. Do not release these
characteristic differences. Walleye fish back into the water.
and white bass populations have been
Ruffe and Round Goby – The
negatively impacted by this species.
ruffe (Gymneocephalus cernuus)
This fish can hybridize with the
and the round goby (Neogobius
white bass. White perch are spread
melanostomus) are both nuisance
by illegal release into other bodies of
species that have not been found
water. If you catch a white perch, do
in Kansas. The ruffe can resemble
not release them back into the water,
young walleye, sauger, or saugeye.
instead eat or dispose of them.
The ruffe has a large continuous
Rudd – Rudd (Scardinius dorsal fin, which has spots between
erthtophthalmus) is similar in its rays. The round goby has a
appearance to a golden shiner. large head, soft bodies and dorsal
They can get up to 14 inches fins without spines. They kind of
long with dark grey back, silver resemble large tadpoles. Anglers
sides, and blood-red fins. This fish may be the first to discover
affects spawning areas for other these fish because they are both
species because they consume commonly caught by hook and
vegetation. Rudd may hybridize line. Report any sighting of these
with the golden shiner. Rudd can species to the Kansas Department
be spread by anglers accidently of Wildlife and Parks. Further
using them as bait. Anglers need information about any of the
to learn to identify the rudd aquatic nuisance species can be
and make sure they dispose of obtained from the KDWP website
unwanted bait on land. Early at: http://www.kdwp.state.ks.us/
detection of isolated populations news/Fishing/AquaticNuisance-
may help prevent their spread. Species.
Rudd are currently only found in
two locations in Kansas. Amphibians
Asian Carp – The bighead carp Amphibians are generally
(Hypophthalmichthys nobilis), black beneficial to the aquatic
carp (Mylopharymgodon piceus), and environment and are desired. In
the silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys certain situations, salamanders and
molitrix) are all species of Asian bullfrogs can become a problem
carp that can be found in Kansas. in fish culture ponds. There are no
Bighead and silver carp have low- pesticides registered for control of
set eyes and a large upturned mouth these animals. Control is limited to
without barbells. These two species physical means in compliance with
also have a scaleless head and very Kansas Department of Wildlife
small scales on the body. The black and Parks regulations.
carp has a blackish brown body
with large scales. Adults of these
26
Nuisance Animal
Reptiles Mammals Control
Aquatic turtles and snakes are The aquatic mammals that
common components of the cause the greatest problems are
aquatic ecosystem. In general they the rodents, such as beavers and
do not cause any problem to the muskrats. These rodents cause
fish population, and if left alone, damage by burrowing into dikes,
do not injure humans. In certain levees, and dams. This weakens the
situations some humans may structures often causing cave-ins,
find them annoying and in some leaks, and increases bank erosion.
aquaculture ponds they may reduce Also their damming activity can
fish production. There are no clog culverts, overflow structures,
pesticides registered for the control and streams.
on aquatic reptiles. Control can The best control methods
usually be accomplished by fishing, involve trapping during the
trapping, and shooting. Before legal furharvesting season.
control is attempted, the current Other nonchemical methods
Kansas Department of Wildlife include reducing the food supply,
and Parks regulations should installing protective barriers, and
checked and followed. shooting. Chemical control may
consist of the use of repellants
Birds and fumigants. If using control
Birds usually add to the esthetics of methods other than trapping
a body of water. In rare situations, during the legal season contact the
aquatic birds can become a problem. Kansas Department of Wildlife
Excessive waterfowl in a recreational and Parks or the wildlife damage
pond or lake can cause disturbance control specialist, Kansas State
and/or excessive nutrient enrichment University, for details on current
of the water with their wastes restrictions.
(eutrophication). In aquaculture
ponds and lakes, fish-eating birds
can have a significant impact on the
fish mortality. In both these types
of situations, the migratory bird
species involved are protected by
state and federal law. Any control
measure must be preceded by
acquiring the proper permits. Obtain
a permit from the U. S. Fish and
Wildlife Service or check with the
Kansas Department of Wildlife and
Parks or the K-State Research and
Extension wildlife control specialist
for permit procedures.
27
Nuisance Animal
Control Study Questions 5. There are _____ chemicals
approved for the control of
These study questions are to aid amphibians and aquatic reptiles.
you in learning the material on a. no
pages 24 through 27.
b. two
1. Snails can be controlled with: c. five
a. chemicals. d. seven
b. catfish. 6. Aquatic nuisance species can have
c. redear sunfish. an impact on:
d. all of the above. a. other fish populations.
2. Fish populations become b. aquatic ecosystems.
unproductive from: c. terrestrial ecosystems.
a. overabundance of stunted d. both a and b.
desirable fish.
7. Excessive waterfowl in
b. contamination by undesirable recreational ponds/lakes and fish
fish species. eating birds in aquaculture ponds/
c. a and b above. lakes are usually classes of:
d. too much food. a. song birds.
3. In controlling fish, many chemicals b. soaring birds.
are toxic but: c. migatory birds.
a. most affect nontarget d. aqua avian foul.
organisms.
8. Aquatic mammals that cause the
b. cause environmental greatest problems in Kansas are:
contamination.
c. show up later as residues a. muskrats.
in fish. b. beavers.
d. all of the above. c. escaped polar bears.
4. The aquatic nuisance species that d. a and b above.
resembles the golden shiner is the:
a. Rudd.
b. Asian carp.
c. Ruffe.
d. none of the above.
28
Parasites and
Diseases of Fish
Fish in nature have a wide variety quality water and good nutrition
of parasites and diseases. Usually usually result in healthy fish.
these do not have a major impact Healthy fish are usually resistant to
on the fish populations. When diseases.
fish are crowded and placed under
At times parasite and disease
stressful conditions, as in the
problems occur that can best be
intensive culture of conservation
treated with a chemical. Treatment
agency fish hatcheries and private
compounds themselves can be
aquaculture, parasites and diseases
potentially hazardous to the fish
can become a serious problem.
if used improperly. The details of
The best treatment, of course, diagnosis and treatment are highly
is prevention. Sound culture technical and require additional
management including good training so they will not be covered
Table 4. Approved Drugs Used in Aquaculture
Active Drug Supplier Fishery Use Application Rate Comments
Formalin Natchez Control of external 25 ppm in ponds (7.5 Drug must not be
(Formalin-F, Animal Supply protozoa and gals./acre foot) subjected to temperatures
Paracide-F, Company, Argent monogenetic 125–250 ppm in tanks below 40 degrees F.
Parasite-S and Laboratories, Inc., trematode parasites in (1–2 pints per 1000 There is no mandatory
Formacide-B) Western Chemical, finfish, salmon, trout, gals) for one hour withdrawal time prior
Inc., B. L. Mitchell, catfish, largemouth to food or non-food fish
Inc. bass, and bluegill. 1,000–2,000 ppm for harvest. Use in warm
Control of fungi 15 minutes for egg weather may cause oxygen
family Saprolegniaceae treatment depletion. Provide aeration
on eggs. Control of during treatment to
external protozoan prevent low oxygen.
parasites on penaeid
shrimp.
MS-222: tricaine Argent Anesthetic – Temporary 10–1,000 mg/L 21-day preslaughter
methane-sulfonate Laboratories, immobilization of interval. Water
(Finquel, Western Chemical, aquatic cold-blooded temperature over 50
Tricaine-S) Inc. animals and fish. degrees F.
Oxyytetracycline Phibro Animal Bactericide – Treat 2.5 3.75 g/100 lbs. of Withdrawal time of
dehydrate Health diseases in catfish, fish per day for 5 days 21 days for catfish and
(Terramycin 200) salmonids, and lobster. in feed salmonids and 30 days for
lobster. Check for specific
temperature restrictions.
Ormetropin + Aquatic Health Bactericide – Treat 2.3 g. active 3-day withdrawal time for
Sulfadimethoxine Resources enteric septicemia ingredient/100 lb. fish catfish, 42-day withdrawal
(Romet 30 and of catfish and per day for 5 days time for salmonids. Use in
Romet TC) furnuculosis in feed.
salmonids.
(continued)
29
Parasites and
in this manual. Few chemicals are future losses. It is important to
Diseases of Fish registered for use on food fish. know how water volume, flow,
Table 4 gives the approved drugs or quality influences treatment
available for use in aquaculture. efficacy. Treatments must be
Treatments can be classified as handled properly and safely to
either therapeutic or prophylactic. protect workers as well as the
Therapeutic treatments are used treated fish. It is also important to
to reduce losses from an ongoing know the level of chemical in the
disease, while prophylactic hatchery effluent.
treatments are preventative against
Table 4. Approved Drugs Used in Aquaculture (continued)
Active Drug Supplier Fishery Use Application Rate Comments
Florfenicol Intervet Schering- Control of mortality 10 mg per kg fish for Veterinary Feed Directive
(Aquaflor) Plough Animal due to enteric 10 days (VFD) drug. 12–15 day
Health Corp. septicemia or withdrawal interval
columnaris disease depending on fish species.
in catfish. Control
of mortality in
salmonids due to
coldwater disease or
funrunculosis.
Oxytetracycline IVX Animal Mark skeletal tissues 200–700 mg per L of None
HCL Health, Aquatic in finfish fry and water for 2-6 hours
(Oxytetracycline Health Resources, fingerlings.
HCL Soluble Bimeda
Power-343,
Terramycin 343,
Tetroxy
Hydrogen Peroxide Western Chemical Control of mortality 500–1,000 mg per L Initial bioassay on a
(35 % Perox-Aid) Inc. due to saprolegniasis depending on type small number of fish
in finfish eggs. Control of water and system recommended before
of mortality due for finfish eggs. 50– treating the entire group.
to bacterial gill in 100 mg per L for 60 0 day withdrawal time.
salmonids and control min. once per day on
of mortality dye to alternate days. Consult
external columnaris in the label for specific
catfish. directions.
Chorionic Western Chemical Aid in improving Consult veterinarian. Intramuscular injection.
gonadotropin Inc. spawning function. Prescription product
(Chorulon) restricted to use by or on
the order of a licensed
veterinarian.
30
Parasites and
Study Questions 3. The drug __________can only be
Diseases of Fish
used by or on the order of a licensed
These study questions are to aid veterinarian.
you in learning the material on
pages 29 through 30. a. Terramycin 200
1. The best treatment for fish diseases b. Chorulon
and parasites is: c. Aquaflor
a. prevention. d. Both b and c
b. mechanical removal. 4. A bactericide used to treat diseases
c. chemical removal. in fish is:
d. bright lights. a. Romet 30.
2. What type of treatment is used to b. acetic acid (vinegar).
prevent an outbreak of a disease? c. formalin.
a. therapeutic d. none of the above.
b. INAD use
c. prophylactic
d. all of the above
31
Calculations
Volume
Most herbicides are applied on
Proper chemical treatment requires the basis of volume as a certain
accurate determination of the area number of parts per million (ppm)
and volume of the body of water. or as a certain amount per acre-
foot (1 acre of surface water that
Area is 1 foot deep). To find volume,
Some chemicals are applied at a determine average depth by taking
Table 5. Conversion Units
certain rate per surface area (square numerous evenly spaced depth
and Equivalents
feet or acres). Surface area can be measurements. The accuracy of the
1 acre- = 1 acre of surface water 1 foot determined with the use of aerial average depth estimate increases
foot deep photographs, global positioning the more depth measurements
= 43,560 cubic feet of water system (GPS) measurements, or taken. Shallow measurements must
= 2,718,144 pounds of water actual measurements. Calculate be included or the estimate will be
= 326,000 gallons of water area by multiplying average length too high.
1 cubic = 7.5 gallons times average width. This is easy
Multiply calculated average depth
foot = 62.4 pounds of water if the body of water is rectangular
by the surface area determined
= 28,355 grams of water or oval in shape. If a more accurate
by the method described earlier.
estimate is desired, or if the body
1 gallon = 8.34 pounds of water If all measurements were made
of water is an irregular shape, use
= 128 fluid ounces in feet, the calculated volume
the graph paper method.
= 3,785 milliliters or cubic will be in cubic feet. Use this
centimeters number to calculate the amount of
Measure length and width
= 3,785 grams of water
in several places. Transfer herbicide product recommended
1 cubic = 7.5 gallons per second
measurements onto a sheet of on the label. Aquatic herbicide
foot per
second
= 450 gallons per minute
graph paper according to a scale. application is often expressed on
(cfs) = 28.3 liters per second
Draw the shoreline with the a per acre-foot basis, but can be
1 quart = 946 milliliters or cubic proper curvatures. Determine changed to the units expressed on
centimeters
the area by counting the squares the label by using the conversion
= 946 grams of water and multiplying by the scale area table (Table 5). Dosage amounts
1 pound = 453.6 grams (454) for each square. For example: can be determined with the
= 16 ounces if the scale is such that the side formulas given in Table 6, page 33.
1 ounce = 28.35 grams of one square is 5 feet, then the
1 part per 2.7 pounds per acre foot area of one square is 5 × 5 or 25 Flow
million 0.0038 grams per gallon square feet. The area then can be If a chemical must be applied to
(ppm) flowing water (canal or stream) the
requires 0.0283 grams per cubic foot expressed as square feet or acres.
0.000062 pounds per cubic One acre = 43,560 square feet. flow rate needs to be determined.
foot Based on the concentration desired
Surface area of pond in acres = in the water, calculate the chemical
1 milligram per liter
pond area in square feet introduction rate using formulas
43,560 given in Table 7, page 33.
Calculate the flow rate by picking
a section of the canal or stream
with straight sides and a fairly
even bottom to take the necessary
measurements. Measure width
and a transect of evenly spaced
32
Calculations
depth measurements. Muliply factor equals 0.9; for a rough or
width times the average depth rocky bottom this factor equals 0.8.
to get the cross section area. The
surface velocity of the flow should Because of the flowing nature
be measured at several places along of treated stream, the chance of
this transect to get the average contaminating nontreatment areas
velocity. This can be done by is very high. A detoxification
timing an object as it flows over a program may have to be
measured distance of several feet incorporated into the treatment
or using a flow meter. program. Also, due to the
difficulty of accurate stream
Multiply the velocity in feet per flow determinations and length
second by the cross section area of time to treat, the applicator
(in square feet) to get flow in should check with the state fish
cubic feet per second (cfs). Then and game agency and/or the
multiply by a bottom friction state department of health and
factor (a) to reduce the amount. environment before treating any
For a smooth, even bottom this flowing water.
Table 6: Table of Formulas Used in Chemical Application to Ponds and Lakes
Volume of pond in cubic feet = surface area in square feet × average depth in feet
volume of pond in cubic feet
Volume of pond in acre feet =
43,560
Total ponds of active ingredient (a.i.) required = acre feet × 2.7 × ppm desired
amount of active ingredient to apply × 100
Amount of formulation to apply =
% of a.i. in formulation
acre feet × 2.7 × ppm desired
Total gallons of formulations required =
pounds a.i. per gallon of formulation
Table 7: Table of Formulas Useful in Chemical Applications to Flowing Water
Cross section area of channel in square feet = width in feet × average depth in feet
Stream flow in cubic feet per second (cfs) = cross section in square feet × average velocity in feet per second
× friction factor (a) a = 0.9 in smooth bottom, 0.8 in rough
bottom
Pounds of active ingredient (a.i.) per cfs = ppm desired × 0.0000623.
ppm desired × stream flow in cfs × 60 (sec/min) × 0.0000623 × 100
Pounds of formulation per minute =
% of active ingredient in formulation
33
Calculations
Example problems
Pond volume: A pond is measured to have an average length of 210 feet,
an average width of 120 feet, and an average depth of 3.3 feet. What is
the volume in acre feet?
210 feet × 120 feet × 3.3 feet
Volume = = 1.91 acre feet
43,560 cubic feet/acre feet
Pond treatment: A pond needs to be treated for aquatic vegetation. The
label states that 4.5 pounds of the material is needed per acre foot. The
volume of the pond is 3.1 acre foot. How many pounds of the material
should be applied?
Pounds to be applied = 4.5 pounds/acre feet × 3.1 acre feet = 14 pounds
Pond treatment: A pond needs to be treated at a rate of 2 ppm active
ingredient. The volume of the pond is 4.2 acre feet. The chemical is
available as a 25% active ingredient formulation. How many pounds
of the formulation should be applied for proper treatment?
(1 ppm = 2.7 pounds/acre feet)
Pounds of formulation =
2 ppm × 4.2 acre feet × 2.7 pounds/acre feet × 100
= 90.7 pounds
25%
Stream flow: A stream is 9.6 feet wide, has an average depth of 1.8 feet,
a flow velocity of 1.2 feet per second, and a smooth bottom. What is the
stream flow in cfs?
Stream flow = 9.6 feet × 1.8 feet × 1.2 feet/sec × 0.9 = 18.66 cfs
Stream treatment: A canal needs to be treated at 1 ppm active
ingredient. The chemical comes as an 80% formulation. The canal has a
flow of 20 cfs. How many pounds of this formulation should be metered
into the canal each minute?
Pounds of formulation =
1 ppm × 20 cfs × 0.0000623 pounds per cubic foot × 100
= 0.093 pounds per minute
80%
34
Calculations
Study Questions 3. What do the initals cfs stand for?
These study questions are to aid a. chemical formulation standard
you in learning the material on b. cubic foot per second
pages 32 through 34. c. cubic feet in streams
1. The area of a lake or pond can be d. none of the above
determined by: 4. In order to determine the flow
a. aerial photographs. rate of a stream, the necessary
b. multiplying average length by measurements include:
average width. a. stream width.
c. several measurements b. surface velocity.
transferred to graph paper. c. stream depth.
d. all of the above. d. all of the above.
2. The most important thing in
determining the volume of a body
of standing water is:
a. subtracting the volume of fish.
b. taking numerous, evenly
spaced depth measurements.
c. subtracting the volume
of algae.
d. measuring the flow rate.
35
Additional
Guide to Drug, Vaccine, and
Information Pesticide Use in Aquaculture. 2007
Additional information on aquatic revision, http://aquanic.org/jsa/
plants and their control is available wgqaap/drugguide/drugguide.htm.
from the following sources: Accessed February 1, 2010.
1. K-State Research and Extension Kansas Department of Wildlife
www.ksre.ksu.edu and Parks. 2009. Aquatic
Nuisance Species. http://www.
2. Kansas Department of Wildlife
kdwp.state.ks.us/news/Fishing/
and Parks
Aquatic-Nuisance-Species. Accessed
www.kdwp.state.ks.us
February 1, 2010.
3. Kansas State University Weed
National Aquaculture Association.
Management
2003. Drugs and Chemicals
www.agronomy.ksu.edu/
in US Aquaculture: http://
extension/DesktopDefault.
www.thenaa.net/downloads/
aspx?tabid=69
Drugs_and_Chemicals_in_US_
4. Missouri Department of Aquaculture_11.10.pdf. Accessed
Conservation February 1, 2010.
mdc.mo.gov/nathis/plantpage/
Peterson, Dallas E. and Charles
flora/wetplant
Lee, 2005. Aquatic Plants and
5. Texas A&M Aquaplant Their Control. Kansas State
aquaplant.tamu.edu University, Manhattan, Kansas.
USDA, NRCS. 2010. The
References PLANTS Database. National
Aquatic, Wetland, and Invasive Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge,
Plants Line Drawings, 1990. LA. http://plants.usda.gov.
IFAS, Center for Aquatic Plants, Accessed February 1, 2010.
University of Florida, Gainesville, USFWS AADAP Program,
FL. http://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/ the AFS Fish Culture Section,
node/482. Accessed February 1, AFS Fish Health Section, and
2010. FDA Center for Veterinary
Burtle, Gary J. 2009. Aquatic Medicine. 2008. A Quick
Environments: Fishery Chemicals Reference Guide To: Approved
– (Parasites, Piscicides and Other Drugs for Use in Aquaculture:
Treatments) http://www.ent. http://www.fda.gov/downloads/
uga.edu/pmh/Com_Aquatic.pdf. AnimalVeterinary/ResourcesforYou/
Accessed February 1, 2010. AnimalHealthLi%20teracy/
UCM109808.pdf. Accessed
February 1, 2010.
36
Answers to Study Questions
Pages 3–13
1. d, 2. d, 3. b, 4. c, 5. d, 6. d, 7. b, 8. d
Pages 15–22
1. d, 2. d, 3. b, 4. d, 5. b, 6. c, 7. b, 8. d
Pages 24–27
1. d, 2. c, 3. d, 4. a, 5. a, 6. d, 7. c, 8. d
Pages 29–30
1. a, 2. c, 3. d, 4. a
Pages 32–34
1. d, 2. b, 3. b, 4. d
37
Notes
38
Frannie L. Miller
Pesticide Coordinator
Dallas E. Peterson
Weed Specialist, Agronomy
Charles D. Lee
Wildlife Specialist, Animal Sciences and Industry
Acknowledgments
Appreciation is expressed to the following for cooperation
in the Commercial Pesticide Application Training Program:
Jeanne Fox, Certification and Training Section Chief,
Pesticide and Fertilizer Program, Kansas Department of Agriculture
Illustrations
USDA-NCRS, National Plant Data Center
IFAS, Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants, University of Florida
Brand names appearing in this publication are for product identification purposes only.
No endorsement is intended, nor is criticism implied of similar products not mentioned.
Publications from Kansas State University are available on the World Wide Web at: www.ksre.ksu.edu
Publications are reviewed or revised annually by appropriate faculty to reflect current research and practice.
Date shown is that of publication or last revision. Contents of this publication may be freely reproduced
for educational purposes. All other rights reserved. In each case, credit Frannie L. Miller,
Aquatic Pest Control, Kansas State University, October 2010.
Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service
S-29 October 2010
K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension Work, Acts
of May 8 and June 30, 1914, as amended. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and United States Department
of Agriculture Cooperating, Gary Pierzynski, Interim Director.