E. crassipes is the most damaging aquatic weed in the 10 world (Holm et al., 1969; Global Invasive Species Database). It has impacted freshwater systems on most continents. At this stage the plant is relatively localized within Europe. Every effort should be made to control the weed. The risk of establishment, spread and impact is extremely high

2021: Taxonomic studies have concluded that Eichhornia crassipes should be transferred to the genus Pontederia resulting in the species being called Pontederia crassipes (Pellegrini et al., 2018). The pest is now listed under this name on the EPPO A2 List. The content of the PRA has not been changed.