Longleaf pondweed (Potamogeton nodosus) is a native, perennial aquatic plant common to the Southern Great Plains. It is rooted and typically does not grow in water more than about 5 feet deep. It has elliptical leaves that float on top of the water and are about 1.5 to 5 inches long. It is a very desirable plant because it provides good habitat for small fish and invertebrates, which are eaten by fish and waterfowl. The seeds and plant are eaten by waterfowl as well. However, like many aquatic plants, it can become overabundant for certain goals. Control is relatively easy if warranted. Longleaf pondweed can be controlled by grass carp because it is one of their preferred foods. It can also be controlled by using chemicals such as endothall, fluridone, imazamox, diquat, bispyribac or flumioxazin. Follow label directions for chemical application.
Since longleaf pondweed is a great plant to have for fish and waterfowl, it can be planted into water bodies where it is lacking. It can be transplanted by the roots from a source location and planted at the same depth as its source. Be careful to ensure the source location does not contain undesirable plants because they can and will be brought along with the intended plant.
Common Aquatic Vegetation in the Southern Great Plains
Aquatic vegetation is an important part of many ecosystems. Aquatic vegetation has both positive and negative attributes, but it is up to the manager to determine what role aquatic vegetation plays in relation to their goals or objectives. If managing aquatic vegetation is deemed necessary, choosing the appropriate method is essential. This book assists managers in making correct management decisions by providing the most basic need: proper identification.
Now you can also search for aquatic vegetation in our plant image gallery.
