What effects do aquatic plants have on water quality in the Lower Volta Basin?

What effects do aquatic plants have on water quality in the Lower Volta Basin?

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Africa | Cooperation | NetCDA | News | presentation | West Africa

January 24, 2025

On January 22, 2025, the Earth Observation Research Cluster in Würzburg welcomed Dr. Linda Appiah Boamah from the Koforidua Technical University, Ghana. She presented her research on the “Effect of Aquatic Plants on Water Quality of the Lower Volta Basin, Ghana“.

Aquatic plants significantly influence water quality in the Lower Volta Basin. Invasive aquatic species like water hyacinth can lead to reduced fish populations, hinder water transport, and decrease water supply. Dr. Boamah’s study analyzed the extent of aquatic plant growth and its effects using a combination of Landsat 7 and 8 optical imagery, drone data, and in situ sampling from 2010 to 2021.  Her findings revealed a marked increase in aquatic plant coverage during the study period. She further highlighted the potential of remote sensing in this research area to provide cost-effective, timely assessments of water quality parameters such as nutrients and vegetation spread. 

We thank Dr. Boamah for her insightful talk. Her research underscores the importance of remote sensing tools for addressing environmental challenges. 

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