The regeneration capacity of Egeria densa must be studied to control its proliferation and reduce the damage to energy generation at Paulo Afonso power plant. Thus, 4 m² plots were established in different seasons and at three water depths (0-2, 2-6, and 6-9 m) with removal of the initial plant biomass and three months later. At 0-2 m depth, removal was repeated five consecutive times in four of the plots. At this depth, regenerated biomass (518 g m²) was similar to the initial one (482 g m²), regardless of season (dry season, overall: 506 g m²; rainy season: 513 g m²) and repeated removal. At 2-6 m, regenerated biomass was only 66% of the initial ones (150 and 229 g m²) and at 6-9 m, only 21% (11.6 and 54.9 g m²). The rapid recolonization and growth of E. densa makes it very difficult to eradicate it from São Francisco River reservoirs. It is suggested that this great biomass production potential be put to use.
biomass; plant harvesting; water depth; seasonal growth
