Hydrilla (Hydilla verticillata)
Also called Water Thyme, Hydrilla is one of the worlds most aquatic invasive plants. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, this form is thought to have came to our shores from Korea. This is a submersed perennial herb that can be found in lakes, ponds, rivers, impoundments, and canals. Can be compared to Elodea canandensis and the Brazilian Waterweed. Features of this plant include:
For Hydrilla to reproduce, it only takes a piece of floating plant material to set roots. The tubers can develop along the stem, which help overwinter the plant by holding food for the plant to survive. These are found 2'' to 12'' below the sediment surface. The plant can grow as fast as a foot a day, but with warmer temperature it can grow an inch a day toward the surface. Once at the surface, Hydrilla forms thick mats which blocks out the sun for the native aquatic plants. The thick mat creates more problems for fish, the stratification of the water column and the decreased dissolved oxygen levels can be toxic, also a reduction in fish weight and size because of the lack of open water and natural vegetation. People will start having problems fishing, boating and swimming in these thick mats.
- 5/8'' long leaves that are whorled along the length of the stem, commonly 4 to 8 leaves per whorl.
- Edges along the leaves are lined with sharp teeth.
- Have a dull-white to yellowish potato-like tuber along the roots.
- Can grow in lengths over 25'.
For Hydrilla to reproduce, it only takes a piece of floating plant material to set roots. The tubers can develop along the stem, which help overwinter the plant by holding food for the plant to survive. These are found 2'' to 12'' below the sediment surface. The plant can grow as fast as a foot a day, but with warmer temperature it can grow an inch a day toward the surface. Once at the surface, Hydrilla forms thick mats which blocks out the sun for the native aquatic plants. The thick mat creates more problems for fish, the stratification of the water column and the decreased dissolved oxygen levels can be toxic, also a reduction in fish weight and size because of the lack of open water and natural vegetation. People will start having problems fishing, boating and swimming in these thick mats.
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The best way to control Hydrilla is to prevent it by using appropriate boat cleaning measures. By just making sure your equipment is free of any plant material when entering or leaving can help stop the spread of this invasive plant. Here are some simple steps to make when using a motorized boat or non-motorized boat:
You have to remember that Hydrilla can survive in moist conditions for several days. So it is very important that you take the time to go through these steps. |
Jackson Karns and Elaine Dalrymple with one of the many awareness signs in the county.
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