Growth rate similar to water hyacinth – can double in a few weeks
Reproduce by seeds and stolons
Harbors mosquitoes
Dense mats prevent air and light diffusion into water, consume oxygen
displacing native plants, fish and wildlife
preventing decomposition of detritus
Increases sedimentation by shedding roots, leaves and shoots
Rapid dispersal by wind and water movement
Mats jam against bridges and reduce water flow at flood control structures
Reduces property values and local tax revenues
Management Options
Biological: 2 host-specific insects (ineffective to date)
Chemical: Diquat, flumioxazin; carfentrazone Occasionally copper near drinking water intakes
Mechanical: Harvest around bridges and flood control structures
Physical: Occasional winter drawdowns (drying and desiccation)
Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, Status of the Aquatic Plant Maintenance Program in Florida Public Waters, Annual Report – Fiscal Year 2016-2017.