Which management technique involves the physical removal of aquatic plants?

The management technique that involves the physical removal of aquatic plants is mechanical control. This approach includes methods such as hand-pulling, harvesting with specialized equipment, or using tools like rakes or cutters to physically extract the plants from the water. Mechanical control is particularly useful in managing invasive or unwanted plant species, as it allows for immediate reduction of plant biomass.

In contrast, biological control would involve introducing natural predators or pathogens to manage plant populations, while chemical control refers to the application of herbicides or pesticides to target and eliminate pests. Water management typically involves altering water levels or flow to influence plant growth but does not involve directly removing the plants themselves. By understanding these distinctions, it's clear why mechanical control is the appropriate term for physical removal of aquatic vegetation.