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Hydrilla
Verticellata
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Hydrilla Verticellata Description:
Hydrilla Verticellata, commonly referred to as Hydrilla is a
very invasive submersed freshwater herb. It was originally sold
as an aquarium plant. It forms very dense strands growing from
the bottom of the water and sprawling across the surface.
Although it is an excellent source of food for waterfowl, it can
be a serious threat to freshwater habitats and a nuisance to
boaters.
Hydrilla reproduces by fragmentation. It does not form any
seeds. Hydrilla produces large strands of plants in just a few
months through its efficient use of low light levels and
available nutrients. Even small pieces stuck on boat propellers
or in bait pails contribute to the easy spread of Hydrilla to
other waterways.
Hydrilla Verticellata
Hydrilla Verticellata Identification:
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Green, freshwater herb
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Submersed plant with long
slender stems
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2 to 8 small, spear-like
leaves per whorl spread across the water
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The leaf has a sawtooth
edge and small spines on the underside that are rough to the
touch
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Grows in as little as a
few inches of water or in more than 30 feet of water
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