Curly-leaf pondweed
(Potamogeton crispus)
General description:
A perennial, submerged aquatic herb that is native to Eurasia. Tolerates fresh or slightly brackish water and can grow in shallow, deep, still, or flowing water.
Ecological threat:
- Invades freshwater lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, and in slightly brackish waters. Can become dominant and invasive due to its tolerance for low light and low water temperatures.
- May outcompete other underwater plants and become dominant, which causes problems due to the formation of dense mats that interfere with recreational activities.
- Also causes an increase in phosphorus concentrations, causing an increase in algae blooms and a pile up of dying P. crispus along the shore.
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