Macrophytes, partners or competitors?

Abstract

Apart from the large waterside helophytes, which are clearly visible in waterscape, aquatic plants are often unknown to the public. The latter is generally only interested in them when they proliferate and then wishes for them to be gone. For several decades, the investigations carried out on macrophytes and their communities have greatly evolved in line with social demands. From the management of species causing nuisances to the implementation of the Water Framework Directive, we have gone through studies on the ecological functioning of these communities, on the possibilities of direct use of certain species and on need to protect other endangered species. In addition to a chronological analysis of this evolution over nearly 4 decades, a broad overview will be drawn up by reflecting on the relationships established between the public, managers and researchers concerning these ubiquitous constituents of aquatic environments, competitors and partners in human activities.