Protected land enhances the survival of native aquatic macrophytes and limits invasive species spread in the Panama Canal

This study examined whether protected land in a tropical reservoir's catchment can promote the survival of native aquatic plants (macrophytes) and limit spread invasive alien plant species (macrophyte IAS), which threaten wildlife require expensive remediation. As number river dams is expected to increase coming decades meet societal demands, it crucial explore solutions for preserving biodiversity. The used before–after–control–intervention design, based on monitoring data long-term sedimentological, climatic ecological records from both lake zones adjacent unprotected lands around 100-year-old Gatun Lake Panama Canal, Panama. research impact impoundment invasion Pontederia crassipes (water hyacinth) Hydrilla verticillata thyme) macrophyte communities environmental variables. had lower nutrient concentrations, greater variations water depth profiles reduced fluctuations chemistry than outside areas protection. In addition, results showed that whereas became dominated by IAS, were more resilient IAS able maintain viable populations pre-dam >100 years. indicates protecting reservoirs could be cost-effective solution biodiversity retaining nutrients, stabilizing chemistry, providing habitat heterogeneity vegetation, while still supporting terrestrial conservation goals. These findings aid planning measures hundreds proposed dam projects across lowland provide new insights into best practices enhancing ecosystem resilience.