Section 1 provides descriptions and links to information on aquatic plants found in Florida waters. Fish and wildlife managers generally agree that healthy Florida aquatic ecosystems require a diverse assemblage of native submersed, emergent, free-floating and floating-leaved plants. The roles of native plants are discussed along with differences among native, non-native, and invasive species. Details are presented on the 17 most invasive aquatic plants in Florida waters to demonstrate why their management is so important.