Growth performance and biomass aquatic plants of Hydrilla verticillata in floating net cages and non-floating net cages in Laut Tawar Lake

Aquatic plants of Hydrilla verticillata have a role as a provider of natural food for the aquatic biota of Laut Tawar Lake. This study aimed to analyze the biomass growth of submerged aquatic plant of Hydrilla verticillata found in the KJA and non-KJA areas in Laut Tawar lake. The research was conducted from January to April 2022 in Laut Tawar Lake, Central Aceh Regency. The method used in determining the station of this research is purposive sampling. Data collection on aquatic plant growth was carried out at 2 observation stations using the quadratic transect method measuring 1 x 1 m. The results showed that the growth of the aquatic plant Hydrilla verticilata in Laut Tawar Lake was at a KJA station of 0.72 cm compared to a non-KJA 0.59 which was significantly different (p>0.05). The biomass of aquatic plant of Hydrilla verticilata measured was dry biomass with a value of 574 g/m2 at the KJA station while at the KJA station it was 203 g/m². The density of water plants Hydrilla verticilata at KJA stations is 270 ind/m² while at non-KJA stations is 173 ind/m². It can be concluded that the growth of aquatic plants Hydrilla verticillata is greater than that of non-KJA stations.