EXOTIC AQUATICS
Nutria
Zebra Mussel
Water Hyacinth
Hydrilla
References
Exotic
Aquatics of the Gulf Coast:
Water
Thyme (Hydrilla verticillata)
Hydrilla: Unique Physical Features
Besides its multiple methods of reproduction, hydrilla has other unique features that help it dominate its environment and out-compete many other submerged plants. It requires less light than many plants, and can tolerate shade over long periods. It can store extra phosphorous and absorb carbon from the water more efficiently than other plants, giving it a nutritional advantage. It tolerates a wide range of pH in flowing as well as still water.
Mechanical control methods such as chopping used with many invasive aquatic plants are ineffective because this plant can reproduce by fragmentation. Some states have introduced certain insects known to feed on the plant but these have not been found to effectively control hydrilla. Only grass carp, an animal that also has invasive tendencies, has shown an ability to control the plant in many states.
Hydrilla: An Introduction
Hydrilla: An Aquatic Nightmare
Hydrilla: Unique Physical Features
Hydrilla: Online & Printed Resources