More than 4000 weevils have been released into the Huddersfield Broad Canal near to Colne Bridge to tackle a quick-growing weed. The small weevils will eat a water fern called Azolla filliculoides. If the weed is left unchecked it could cover the surface of the canal and reduce light and oxygen levels in the water. A weed-choked canal could also cause problems for boats and anglers - the weevils are an effective natural means of tackling the fast-growing plant. The CRT says that the weevils feed exclusively on the weed and don't cause damage to other native species.
