Common Name(s): | Eurasian watermilfoil |
Scientific Name: | Myriophyllum spicatum |
Family: | Haloragaceae |
Growth Traits: | Introduced, perennial, warm season |
Description: An introduced species from Eurasia. It has submersed leaves that are whorled and have 12 or more thread-like segments on each side of the feather-like leaf. The thread-like segments usually are less than 0.5 inch long. Eurasian
watermilfoil is a problematic plant in many bodies of water because it can form dense colonies. It usually spreads from fragments. Eurasian watermilfoil provides good habitat for invertebrates, which are eaten by fish and waterfowl. However, due to its ability to dominate a body of water, it is considered an undesirable plant. |
Chemical Control Options: 2,4-D, diquat, endothall, triclopyr, fluridone or imazamox. Fertilizing a pond to produce a phytoplankton bloom or using an aquatic dye prevents sunlight from reaching the plant and limits growth. |
Mechanical Control Options: Physically removing Eurasian watermilfoil is only temporarily effective due to its ability to come back from remaining fragments in the water. |
Biological Control Options: Diploid grass carp are fairly effective at controlling Eurasian watermilfoil, but the effectiveness of triploid grass carp is less certain. |